Kane Williamson has been cleared to return to New Zealand’s Test squad for their upcoming series against England after recovering from a groin injury that sidelined him during New Zealand’s tour of India. The 34-year-old former captain, who missed all three Tests in India, will be part of a strengthened squad for the opening Test in Christchurch on November 28.
In a major boost for New Zealand, the squad also sees two uncapped players — Wellington allrounder Nathan Smith and seamer Jacob Duffy — called up for the high-profile series. Smith, 26, has impressed with his performances in domestic cricket, topping the Plunket Shield wicket charts last season with 33 wickets at an average of 17.18. He has also been in strong form in county cricket with Worcestershire, where he claimed 27 wickets at 21.14. This follows his debut for New Zealand in the first ODI against Sri Lanka earlier this week.
Duffy, who has been on the fringes of the national team for several years, gets his maiden call-up for the series in the absence of injured pacers Bear Sears (knee) and Kyle Jamieson (back). Duffy has been a consistent performer for New Zealand’s domestic teams, and his inclusion adds depth to the Black Caps’ bowling resources.
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Mitchell Santner, the left-arm spinner who played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s successful tour of India earlier this year, will rejoin the squad for the second and third Tests in Wellington and Hamilton. Santner’s 13 wickets in Pune were crucial to New Zealand’s 3-0 series victory, and his return strengthens New Zealand’s spin options for the remaining Tests against England.
The squad also marks the likely farewell of veteran paceman Tim Southee, who announced earlier this week that he will retire from Test cricket after the England series, barring a dramatic qualification for the World Test Championship final. With Southee’s illustrious career coming to a close, New Zealand selectors are focused on ensuring a fitting send-off for the paceman, one of the greatest Black Caps players of all time.
“This is obviously a big series for the side in terms of the World Test Championship, and to also now be farewelling someone like Tim Southee only raises it up further,” said Sam Wells, New Zealand selector. “Tim has had a fabulous career and will go down as one of the greats of New Zealand cricket. I am sure the team and the public will want to give Tim a fitting send-off in what is a highly anticipated series.”
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Southee’s retirement comes on the back of New Zealand’s stunning 3-0 win over India in the recent Test series, which has revived their hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final. However, even a clean sweep over England may not guarantee their place in the final, adding extra weight to what is already shaping up to be an exciting and emotional series.
With the return of Williamson, the team will have to make tough decisions regarding selection. The return of the captain could put pressure on Will Young, who was Player of the Series during
