Kane Williamson returns to NZ squad for WI Tests: Details
What's the story
New Zealand have announced their squad for the upcoming two-Test series against the West Indies, starting December 2. The team sees the return of veteran cricketer Kane Williamson, who will be making his red-ball comeback after missing out on ODIs and a Test series against Zimbabwe earlier this year. Alongside Williamson, experienced pacer Blair Tickner and young fast bowler Zak Foulkes have also been included in a 14-man squad.
Squad changes
Kyle Jamieson rested, Daryl Mitchell returns
Kyle Jamieson has been rested for at least the first Test of the series. Daryl Mitchell also returns to the squad after recovering from a groin injury he picked up during the recent ODI series against West Indies. Williamson, who recently announced his retirement from international T20 cricket, hasn't played a Test match since December last year.
Leadership role
Williamson's inclusion seen as stabilizing presence
Williamson's return is seen as a stabilizing presence for Tom Latham's side. Head coach Rob Walter said, "Kane's ability on the field speaks for itself and it will be great to have his skills as well as his leadership back in the Test group." He added, "He's had a bit of time off to get himself ready for red-ball cricket."
Bowling strength
Tickner and Foulkes join pace attack
With Jamieson unavailable due to his red-ball return-to-play plan, Blair Tickner is set for his fourth Test cap after more than two years. Jacob Duffy, who made his Test debut against Zimbabwe earlier this year, also joins as a pace option to bolster the seam attack.
Team composition
Foulkes's impressive debut and batting lineup
Foulkes, 23, earned his place after an impressive Test debut against Zimbabwe in August where he took nine wickets for 75 runs—the best match figures by a New Zealander on Test debut. The batting lineup is bolstered by Mitchell's return. He had scored a century in the ODI series opener before suffering a groin strain. Along with Williamson, the lineup features Tom Latham (captain), Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Tom Blundell, Will Young and Michael Bracewell.
Information
Here is the squad
NZ squad for WI Tests: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, Will Young.