Key names missing as New Zealand reveal squad for Zimbabwe Test tour

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced a 15-member squad for their upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe, set to be played from July 30 to August 11 in Bulawayo.

The series will not count towards the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), and as a result, Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell have not been included. Williamson is currently playing for Middlesex in the County Championship and will feature in The Hundred for London Spirit, while Bracewell is representing MI New York in the Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA.

New Zealand’s new all-format head coach Rob Walter praised the duo for their clear communication with NZC regarding their availability.

“Kane and Michael were upfront with New Zealand Cricket during the contracting process,” Walter said. 

“Although every Test match is special, the fact that this series isn’t part of the WTC did influence the selection decisions,” he added. 

The squad also sees changes in the bowling lineup, with Kyle Jamieson missing the tour as he awaits the birth of his first child, and Ben Sears ruled out due to a side strain.

In their absence, Matthew Fisher, a 25-year-old fast bowler, has earned his maiden Test call-up. Fisher has impressed in domestic cricket, taking 51 wickets in 14 first-class matches at an average of 24.11.

Coach Walter expressed excitement about Fisher’s potential.

“Matt is one of the fastest bowlers in the country and has that X-factor we’re looking for,” he said. 

“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,” he concluded. 

Both Tests will be held at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, with the first match from July 30 to August 3, and the second from August 7 to 11.

New Zealand squad for Zimbabwe Test series:

Tom Latham (captain), 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