Kane Williamson fit and ready for England Test series
Williamson, who missed the recent series against India due to injury concerns, is fully fit and ready to lead the batting line-up in the much-anticipated series.
New Zealand has announced a 14-member squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against England, starting on 28 November in Christchurch.
Kane Williamson returns to the side after recovering from fitness issues, but spinner Ajaz Patel has once again been excluded from a home series squad.
Williamson, who missed the recent series against India due to injury concerns, is fully fit and ready to lead the batting line-up in the much-anticipated series.
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His return bolsters the squad as they face a strong England side.
Ajaz, however, finds himself out of contention despite impressive performances in overseas Tests. The left-arm spinner has taken all of his 85 career wickets in away matches and last played a home Test in 2020.
Mitchell Santner, another spinning option, will be available only for the second and third Tests.
The squad sees the absence of fast bowler Kyle Jamieson, who is sidelined with a knee injury. Nathan Smith, an uncapped all-rounder, has earned his maiden Test call-up, while Jacob Duffy is yet to make his debut.
This series will also feature Tom Latham as captain, with Tim Southee set to retire from Test cricket after the final match. Southee, however, has expressed his willingness to return if New Zealand qualifies for the World Test Championship final.
