Fast bowler Ben Sears will make his Test debut in the Black Caps' second Test against Australia starting in Christchurch on Friday.
Speaking to media today, New Zealand captain Tim Southee confirmed the 26-year-old would be part of the playing XI, with selectors still deciding on whether to play a fourth seamer in Scott Kuggeleijn or spinner Mitchell Santner.
"He’s had a taste in the other formats. He offers real pace so we're excited to see what he’s got at Test level," Southee said of Sears.
"He’s tall, got pace, and got something about him. It’s always a special time for someone to make their Test debut."
Meanwhile, Southee hit back at former teammate Ross Taylor, who believed Southee's dismissal in the second innings of the first Test showed the New Zealand skipper was more focused on hitting sixes than setting a good example for his team.
New Zealand captain Tim Southee responded to the criticism levelled at him by his former teammate Ross Taylor. (Source: 1News)
"I’m in the team for my bowling…obviously it’s a disappointing way to finish that Test match. I’ve been using the couple of days to improve and learn from that and hopefully we can finish the summer strong," Southee said.
"Everyone’s entitled to their opinion. Inside the four walls is what matters. He knows what it’s like to be inside those four walls, he was in there for 112 Test matches. It’s a little bit disappointing. There’s certainly full belief inside those four walls that we can get the job done over the next five days."
Southee also acknowledged outside criticism of his bowling performances this summer, having only taken four wickets in the last three Tests.
"There's no hiding from the fact the last couple of matches have been disappointing. I know that. I’d always want more wickets and hopefully there’s some to come.
"As a side we’re disappointed with what happened last week but also realise we’ve played some pretty good cricket as a side over the years and especially this ground."
Australian captain Pat Cummins confirmed his side was unchanged to the one that cruised to victory in Wellington last week.
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