New Zealand have announced their squad that will take on the West Indies in a three-match Test series.
Blair Tickner returns to NZ Test squad
New Zealand have recalled 32-year-old fast bowler Blair Tickner to their Test squad after a gap of more than two and a half years. Tickner's last played a Test in March 2023, against Sri Lanka. He returns on the back of solid performances in the ODIs against England and West Indies, where he took nine wickets in three matches.
Tickner has played three Tests so far, taking 12 wickets at 36.25. To partner him in the seam-bowling department will be Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, and all-rounder Nathan Smith. Kyle Jamieson was not picked as he continues to build his workload, while Matt Fisher, Will O'Rourke and Ben Sears weren't available due to injuries.
Kane Williamson back after 11 months
The squad also marks the return of Kane Williamson to the Test fold after nearly one year. Williamson's last Test outing came at home against England in December 2024. He missed the two-match series against Zimbabwe in July-August this year.
The three-Test series against the West Indies begins on December 2 in Christchurch, followed by the second game from December 10 in Wellington and the final match from December 18 in Mount Maunganui.
This is the first time that New Zealand will be hosting West Indies for three Test matches since 2013.
New Zealand Test squad vs West Indies
Batters
Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson, Will Young
Wicketkeeper
Tom Blundell (wk)
All-rounders
Michael Bracewell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith
Bowlers
Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Blair Tickner
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