For the next two-match Test series against Zimbabwe, which will begin on July 30 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, New Zealand confirmed a 15-man roster. The current World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–2027 cycle does not include this series.
The absence of seasoned campaigners Michael Bracewell and Kane Williamson from the team selection was one of the most obvious issues. Williamson’s county obligations will prevent him from being available. Following his time with Middlesex, the former captain of New Zealand will play for London Spirit in the Hundred. However, Bracewell will also participate in the Hundred. Bracewell is now playing in the Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA. The New Zealand Cricket Board announced that the Southern Brave had signed him for £200,000.
Rob Walter, the head coach of New Zealand, expressed his opinion about the two seasoned players’ absence, saying he respects their choice.
“During the signing process, Kane and Michael were upfront with New Zealand Cricket regarding their availability for this tour. A Sports cited Walter as saying, “The fact that these Tests aren’t part of the ICC World Test Championship did influence the discussions on this occasion, even though all Test matches are extremely special and important.”
For the first time since the Kiwis’ historic series thumping of India last year, left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel has returned to the New Zealand team. Additionally, Henry Nicholls, a left-handed batter, makes his first appearance since 2023. Matt Fisher, a fast bowler for the Northern Districts, has been called up for his first-ever Test match.
New Zealand Test team Squad
Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, Nathan Smith, Will Young, Tom Latham (C), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, and Henry Nicholls make
Ben Sears and Kyle Jamieson, both fast bowlers, will also miss the tour for various reasons. Sears was sidelined due to a side issue that will take two to four weeks to heal, while Jamieson has declared himself unavailable as he awaits the arrival of his first child.
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