New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has worked his way back into the Test squad, 18 months after his last his five-day match for his country.
Bracewell suffered an Achilles injury playing for English club Worcestershire last year, followed by a broken finger. The 33-year-old last played a Test in March 2023 against Sri Lanka.
Coach Gary Stead said he’s happy to see the spinning all-rounder return to the squad.
“Michael’s had to show plenty of resilience to rehabilitate his injuries and force his way back into the Black Caps across all three formats.
“His all-round skills, and ability to take the ball away from the left-hander make him a great asset, especially on what we expect will be turning wickets in India and Sri Lanka.”
The Black Caps will also welcome young pace bowlers Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears, who could play their first overseas Test with the side.
“It’s always great when young guys force their way into squads through performance and I know Will and Ben are really looking forward to the challenges of Test cricket in the sub-continent,” said Stead.
The Black Caps will play a one-off Test against Afghanistan in the sub-continent before heading to Sri Lanka for two import ICC world Test Championship matches.
“We know how important the points in Sri Lanka will be to our chances of pushing for a finals spot in England next year.”
New Zealand will take five spinners to India along with their pace attack, Kyle Jamieson remaining on the injury list with an ongoing back injury.
The Test squad departs for India on September 4 before returning home to start the summer series against England.
Blackcaps Test squad:
Tim Southee (c)
Tom Blundell (wk)
Michael Bracewell
Devon Conway
Matt Henry
Tom Latham (vc)
Daryl Mitchell
Will O’Rourke
Ajaz Patel
Glenn Phillips
Rachin Ravindra
Mitchell Santner
Ben Sears
Kane Williamson
Will Young
SHARE ME