The BLACKCAPS have unveiled a refreshed 14-man squad for the opening Tegel Test against the West Indies, starting December 2 at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval — with three pace bowlers included for the first time and Kane Williamson returning to the Test arena.
Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes and Blair Tickner have all earned selection, marking a notable injection of fast-bowling firepower.
Duffy and Foulkes debuted together in Zimbabwe in August, where Foulkes produced a stunning 9–75 — the best match figures by a BLACKCAP on Test debut. Tickner, meanwhile, reclaims his Test spot for the first time since 2023, coming off consecutive player-of-the-match performances against England in the recent Chemist Warehouse ODI series.
Williamson, the side’s all-time leading run-scorer, rejoins the Test squad after missing the winter series in Zimbabwe. Head coach Rob Walter said his presence would be invaluable.
“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,” Walter said. “He’s had some time to prepare for red-ball cricket and is looking forward to getting match time with Northern Districts before the first Test.”
Daryl Mitchell also returns, having recovered from the groin injury he suffered during the opening ODI against the West Indies last week.
Kyle Jamieson and Glenn Phillips were not considered as they follow managed red-ball return-to-play programmes. Injuries have also sidelined Matt Fisher (shin), Will O’Rourke (back) and Ben Sears (hamstring).
Walter praised the pace trio’s inclusion, highlighting their readiness for Test cricket.
“Zak couldn’t have performed much better in his first Test. His debut, combined with his recent white-ball form, made this selection straightforward,” he said.
“Both Jacob and Blair have been around a while and know what it takes to perform at the highest level. They’ve impressed in their white-ball opportunities and we back them to do so in the Test arena if called upon.”
BLACKCAPS Squad – Tegel Test Series v West Indies
Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Rachin Ravindra, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
Upcoming Tests
- 1st Test: December 2 — Hagley Oval, Christchurch
- 2nd Test: December 10 — Cello Basin Reserve, Wellington
- 3rd Test: December 18 — Bay Oval, Tauranga
The series marks an important start to the home Test summer, with New Zealand welcoming back experience while giving new pace talent the chance to shine.
About The Author
