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New Zealand have unveiled their squad for the impending two-match Test series against Bangladesh. This series marks the second phase of New Zealand’s tour to Bangladesh, following a three-match T20I series held in September. The Test series is scheduled to commence on November 28 in Sylhet, with the Black Caps also slated to play a 2-day practice match before the official series kick-off.
Mitchell Santner and Rachin Ravindra included
The primary focus of New Zealand’s squad selection for the Bangladesh tour centers around spin bowling, with the inclusion of experienced campaigner Mitchell Santner and the promising Rachin Ravindra.
Santner, who last featured in a Test match in 2021, enjoyed an impressive Plunkett Shield season, taking 15 wickets at an average of 26.00. Ravindra, a standout performer in the ongoing World Cup, hasn’t played Test cricket for New Zealand since their home series against Bangladesh in January 2022.
Strong spin contingent
Santner and Ravindra will join a formidable spin unit that already features the likes of Ajaz Patel and Ish Sodhi. Furthermore, all-rounder Glenn Phillips provides additional spin options for the New Zealand side led by Tim Southee.
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Selector Sam Wells expressed confidence in their spin group. He also praised Ravindra’s development, noting his left-arm orthodox spin and his recent performances with the bat in the World Cup.
“With Ajaz, Ish, Mitch, Glenn, and Rachin, we have a strong spin group that will offer good variety and options during the series. Mitch had a strong back half of the Plunket Shield campaign last summer and has made good strides in his red-ball bowling. He brings a wealth of experience in subcontinent conditions and adds depth to the batting line-up as a genuine all-rounder. Rachin brings a left-arm orthodox option and has improved considerably over the past 18 months with the ball – and his performances with the bat at the World Cup speak for themselves,” said Wells in an official statement.
Kyle Jamieson, who recently recovered from back surgery in February, returns to bolster the Test squad, adding a different dimension to the pace attack. Unfortunately, New Zealand will miss the services of senior pace bowler Trent Boult on the upcoming tour.
New Zealand Test squad for Bangladesh tour:
Tim Southee (c), Kane Williamson, Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Will Young
