New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has unveiled an impressive 14-player squad geared up to face Australia, in an exciting two-match Test series kicking off on February 29th in Wellington.
Tim Southee and Kane Williamson are on the brink of a significant cricketing milestone, as they gear up to play their 100th Test match, joining the esteemed company of Stephen Fleming, Daniel Vettori, Brendon McCullum, and Ross Taylor in the exclusive club of Kiwi centurions. This historic occasion is set to unfold during the upcoming Test series against Australia in Wellington later this month.
The remarkable journey of BLACKCAPS Captain Southee and former New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson, from their roots in the Northern Districts pathway to representing New Zealand together at the Under-19 level, is a testament to their longevity and skill in the game.
In a positive development, Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand’s dynamic all-rounder, is making a welcomed return to the Test set-up after missing the second game against South Africa, where the Blackcaps secured victory and claimed the series 2-0. Mitchell will skip the T20 international series against Australia before the Test leg, allowing crucial time for his foot to heal.
Adding to the anticipation, Scott Kuggeleijn is back in the red-ball side after almost a year, stepping in for the injured Kyle Jamieson.
The squad also retains the promising young bowler Will O’Rourke, who showcased his talent with an impressive performance against South Africa. This underscores New Zealand’s commitment to nurturing and integrating emerging players, adding a dynamic element to the bowling attack.
Gary Stead, the head coach of the BLACKCAPS, commended Tim Southee and Kane Williamson for their outstanding contributions to the team. He emphasized the incredible accomplishment of playing 100 Tests for one’s country, recognizing the significant milestone achieved by both players.
“To play 100 Tests for your country is an incredible achievement. It takes a huge amount of longevity and skill, and to keep improving and to manage the demands of Test cricket over a long period is a testament to their character,” the coach said, as quoted by nzc.nz
“Tim and Kane continue to be brilliant servants of the game in New Zealand and influential figures in the BLACKCAPS environment. Their achievements at Test level speak for themselves and they are undoubtedly two of the greatest players to have ever worn the New Zealand Test shirt,” Stead further emphasised.
New Zealand squad for Australia Test Series:
Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, and Will Young.
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