Tim Southee, the Test captain of New Zealand, may encounter difficulties in the forthcoming subcontinent trips. In the lead-up to the Black Caps’ Test series against Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and India, Southee’s spot in the starting lineup is not assured for every game.
The New Zealand cricket team will play three Tests against India, two matches against Sri Lanka, and one special Test against Afghanistan before beginning their rigorous Test schedule on the subcontinent.
Considering the anticipated weather in these nations, head coach Gary Stead has picked a 15-player roster that includes spin-bowling alternatives.
The distinct difficulties of subcontinent pitches led to the decision to maybe keep Tim Southee out of several games.
Head coach Gary Stead was reported by as saying, “Due to the nature of the pitches and the heat and humidity, test tours to the subcontinent can ask some really tough questions of pace bowlers.”
When young guys push their way into squads, it’s always great: Gary Stead
This choice might have been motivated by the pacer’s recent home Test performance, as he took just six wickets in four games during the previous season. Vice-captain Tom Latham would assume the captaincy in Southee’s absence.
“We are aware that all of our bowling options might be required across the various Tests, even though we are keeping an open mind regarding the conditions. In order to make sure the team is best served, Tim and I have talked about this as well as the necessity to balance the workloads of the pace-bowlers, including himself, on these international trips,” Stead continued.
After an 18-month break from Test cricket, off-spin all-rounder Michael Bracewell has returned to the squad, giving them five options for spin bowling. Stead spoke candidly on Bracewell’s significance.
In terms of fast bowling, Matt Henry, Ben Sears, and Will O’Rourke are the newcomers who complement Southee. Due to his ongoing recuperation from a stress fracture in his back, Kyle Jamieson is still not available for selection. “It’s always great when young guys force their way into squads through performance and I know Will and Ben are really looking forward to the challenges of Test cricket in the sub-continent,” Stead said.
Also Read: Glenn Phillips muses about his dislike of wicketkeeping: “I didn’t want them to pick me anymore if I was going to play as a keeper.”
For the three away Test matches, the Board has invited former England wicketkeeper James Foster to serve as an assistant coach and former Pakistani spinner Saqlain Mushtaq to serve as bowling coach.
New Zealand Test squad against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka
Tim Southee (capt), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
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