New Zealand has announced its squad for the three-Test series against West Indies starting in December, with former captain Kane Williamson making a return to the red-ball side. The series will begin in Christchurch on December 2, followed by matches in Wellington and Tauranga. Williamson’s last Test for New Zealand was against England in December last year, when he scored his 33rd Test century.
Williamson Back In Test Cricket For NZ Almost After A Year
Kane Williamson, 35, has retired from international T20 cricket and skipped the recent ODI series against West Indies, which New Zealand swept 3-0. Coach Rob Walter praised Williamson’s inclusion, saying, “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’s had a bit of time off to get himself ready for red-ball cricket.”
Williamson missed New Zealand’s recent Test series in Zimbabwe to play in the Hundred and had also played the first two ODIs against England before withdrawing due to a groin injury.
Blair Tickner Returns After 2 Years
Experienced seamer Blair Tickner has been recalled to the Test squad for the first time since 2023, with Kyle Jamieson being rested as part of a managed return to red-ball cricket. Tickner, 32, impressed recently in the ODIs against England, where he was twice named Player of the Match.
Young fast bowler Zak Foulkes, 23, has also been included following a strong debut in Zimbabwe, where he took nine wickets alongside Jacob Duffy. Duffy, 31, is another pace option included for the series.
All-rounder Daryl Mitchell, currently eighth in the ICC Test batting rankings, is back after missing the last two ODIs due to a groin strain. Both Mitchell and Williamson’s return strengthens New Zealand’s batting lineup, providing experience and stability.
NZ Squad For West Indies Test Series
NZ: Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, and Will Young.
