New Zealand talisman Kane Williamson has returned to New Zealand’s 14-man squad for the three-Test series against the West Indies next month after he missed the last Test series in Zimbabwe. Williamson was also missing from most of New Zealand’s white-ball matches so far this season. Williamson had sustained a minor groin injury after playing in the first two of New Zealand’s three one-day internationals against England last month.
New Zealand’s first Test against the West Indies starts on December 2 at Christchurch.
The Black Caps star has what is known as a limited contract with New Zealand Cricket that allows him to play in overseas leagues while still playing for New Zealand when he is available.
“Kane’s ability on the field speaks for itself and it will be great to have his skills as well as his leadership back in the Test group. He’s had a bit of time off to get himself ready for red-ball cricket and I know he’s looking forward to playing for Northern Districts in the second round of the Plunket Shield in the lead-up to the first Test,” New Zealand head coach Rob Walter said.
Besides Williamson, Daryl Mitchell will also make a return to the New Zealand squad after overcoming a groin injury sustained during New Zealand’s recent ODI series against the West Indies. Glenn Phillips, meanwhile, will not be in action as he is still recovering from an injury. Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears are unavailable with injuries and Kyle Jamieson is being rested as he continues his comeback from a back injury.
Pace bowlers Zak Foulkes, Jacob Duffy and Blair Tickner also are selected in the squad. Foulkes took nine wickets on test debut against Zimbabwe in August. Tickner last played a test for New Zealand in 2023.
(With inputs from the Associated Press)
