Fit-again senior pacer Trent Boult has been named in the 13-member New Zealand squad for the first Test against India starting at Basin Reserve on February 21.
According to a media release issued by New Zealand Cricket, the 6 feet 8 inch giant pacer Kyle Jamieson, who made his ODI debut against India in the recent series, has also earned his call up in the Test squad, which will have slow left-arm orthodox Ajaz Patel as the only spinner.
Boult’s comeback is a big boost for the New Zealand side as he missed the entire limited overs leg due to a fractured right hand.
“It’s terrific to have Trent back with us and we’re looking forward to the energy and experience he adds to the group alongside his obvious class with the ball in hand,” head coach and chief selector Gary Stead said.
Jamieson, on the other hand, has been included in a pre-series Test squad for the first time.
“Kyle will offer us a point of difference with the bounce he could extract on what is traditionally a good surface in Wellington,” Stead said.
Mumbai-born Patel was chosen over leg-spinner Ish Sodhi because of his consistency.
“We’re excited to welcome back Ajaz (Patel) who has done a great job for us overseas and has a proven domestic record in New Zealand conditions,” the coach said.
Daryl Mitchell of Northern Districts is also in the squad as a batting all-rounder.
“Daryl showed his batting prowess in his Test debut against England in Hamilton and he naturally offers us great versatility with the different roles he can play,” Stead said.
Tom Blundell will continue to open the batting along side Tom Latham following his breakthrough century in Melbourne.
The Wellington Test will also be Ross Taylor’s 100th Test, joining ranks with his former teammates Brendon McCullum, Daniel Vettori and Stephen Fleming.
Taylor will become the first cricketer in the world to complete 100 games across three international formats.
“To play 100 Tests for your country is an incredible achievement and a testament to his work ethic and complete professionalism,” Stead said of Taylor.