The NZC has announced a 15-member New Zealand Squad for the Zimbabwe tests, which is set to start later this month, where Matt Fisher earned his maiden call-up for the long format.
However, Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell had made themselves unavailable for the two-match test series against Zimbabwe as they will be participating in The Hundred 2025.
The Blackcaps are set to play two match test series in New Zealand tour of Zimbabwe 2025 after the Tri-nation series involving New Zealand and South Africa.
Speaking about Matt’s maiden call-up, Walter said, “Matt’s someone we’re really excited about. He’s one of the fastest bowlers in the country and we think he’s got an X-factor.”
“We’re blessed to have a large number of strong fast bowlers in this country and we’re looking forward to adding Matt into that mix now, giving him a little bit of touring experience and a taste of what it means to be part of the Black Caps,” said Rob Walter.
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter has revealed the Williamson and Bracewell missing the test series during the contract negotiations.
“Kane and Michael were up front with New Zealand Cricket about their availability for this tour during the contracting process,” he said.
“While all Test matches are hugely special and important, the fact these Tests aren’t part of the ICC World Test Championship did influence the discussions on this occasion.”
Apart from the senior duos, fst bowlers Kyle Jamieson and Ben Sears will not be touring to Zimbabwe as well. Jamieson has decided to be with his family who is awaiting his first child.
Ben Sears is recovering from an injury he sustained during the ongoing Major League Cricket (MLC) for defending champions Washington Freedom.
Meanwhile left arm spinner Ajaz Patel and Henry Nicholls have made a comeback. Ajaz hasn’t played a Test since New Zealand’s historic triumph over India in Wankhede in 2024.
Meanwhile Nicholls’ last test appearance was against Bangladesh in 2023. The tow match test series will begin on July 30 at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo.
New Zealand Squad for Zimbabwe Tests: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Will Young
