On Monday, New Zealand Cricket announced their 15-man squad for the upcoming Test matches in the Indian sub-continent.
The series begins with a one-off Test against Afghanistan in Noida, India, followed by two crucial ICC World Test Championship matches against Sri Lanka in September. Tim Southee has been named captain, while Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra are included in the squad.
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What is New Zealand's squad for Afghanistan and Sri Lanka series?
New Zealand's squad: Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (vc), Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Kane Williamson, Will Young
Tim Southee will lead New Zealand's 15-member squad, which includes five spin-bowling options, for the one-off Test against Afghanistan and two matches against Sri Lanka in September https://t.co/FFp7Q93ejN pic.twitter.com/H7jZxZdNTx
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 12, 2024
Spin-heavy squad for sub-continent conditions
Understanding the spin-friendly pitches in the sub-continent, New Zealand has included five spinners in the squad. The off-spinning all-rounder Michael Bracewell returns to the team, alongside Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips, who offer additional spin options.
Ajaz Patel is the squad's only specialist spinner. The team's selection indicates a focus on spin, which may limit the role of their fast bowlers.
These matches are important for New Zealand's chances of reaching the World Test Championship final. They are currently third on the points table, behind India and Australia.
After the Sri Lanka series, New Zealand will face India in a three-match series in October and November, before heading back home for a series against England at the end of the year.
What is the Test schedule for New Zealand's matches against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka?
Only Test vs Afghanistan: Noida, September 9-13
First Test vs Sri Lanka: Galle, September 18-22
Second Test vs Sri Lanka: Galle, September 26-30
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