CricBengal.com | Sports Desk
New Zealand have named a strong 14-member squad for their upcoming two-Test series against India, with Tom Latham set to lead the side. Experienced players Tom Blundell, Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra have been included despite ongoing injury concerns, with all three targeting a return for the opening Test.
New Zealand Cricket announced the squad on November 11. Fast bowler Jacob Duffy has been recalled, while Ben Sears, Zak Foulkes and Will O’Rourke have been left out due to injuries or rehabilitation programmes.
The series will be the first Test meeting between the two teams since New Zealand’s historic 3-0 victory in India in 2024. It was the first time a visiting team had whitewashed India in a home Test series consisting of three or more matches.
Blundell, Conway and Ravindra Included Despite Fitness Concerns
New Zealand have included three important players who are currently working their way back from injuries.
Wicketkeeper-batter Tom Blundell is recovering from a quadriceps injury, Devon Conway is working through a concussion recovery process, while all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is recovering from a shoulder injury.
New Zealand Cricket confirmed that all three are aiming to be available for the first Test in Wellington. Their final availability will depend on their recovery and fitness.
Jacob Duffy Returns as Three Pacers Miss Out
Jacob Duffy is the notable addition to a squad that otherwise remains largely consistent with the group that toured England earlier this year.
Ben Sears has been ruled out with an ankle injury, Zak Foulkes is recovering from a hip injury, and Will O’Rourke is following a return-to-play programme.
New Zealand enjoyed a successful England tour, winning the three-Test series 2-1. Latham’s side will now look to carry that momentum into their home series against India.
BJ Watling Begins New Role as Batting Coach
Former New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter BJ Watling is set to begin his tenure as the team’s new batting coach on November 16.
Head coach Rob Walter will be supported by bowling coach Jacob Oram. Outgoing batting coach Luke Ronchi will also remain involved with the team during the transition.
India vs New Zealand Test Series Schedule
The opening Test will be played at the Cello Basin Reserve in Wellington from November 19 to 23.
The second and final Test will take place at Hagley Oval in Christchurch from November 27 to December 2.
First Test: November 19–23, Cello Basin Reserve, Wellington
Second Test: November 27–December 2, Hagley Oval, Christchurch
New Zealand Test Squad
Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell (wicketkeeper), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner and Will Young.
CricBengal Analysis: New Zealand will enter the series with confidence after their historic 2024 success in India and a strong recent performance in England. However, the fitness of Blundell, Conway and Ravindra could be a key factor in determining the team’s balance ahead of the opening Test.
Sources: New Zealand Cricket
Published by: CricBengal.com/BH