Former World Test Champions New Zealand have named a strong 14-member squad for their upcoming Test series against South Africa. Set to start on February 4, New Zealand will play 2 Test matches against the inexperienced South African side, who named 7 uncapped players in their 14-member squad including their captain Neil Brand.
The New Zealand squad saw the return of senior cricketer and No. 1 ranked Test batter in the world, Kane Williamson. Williamson did not play the last 3 matches of the recently concluded T20I series against Pakistan. Williamson had pulled his hamstring in the 2nd T20I and had been kept away as a precaution.
Alongside Williamson, two other injured players, who are still recovering from their respective problems – Tom Blundell and Kyle Jamieson – have been named in the 14-member squad.
The series has already been put under the scanner after Cricket South Africa decided to prioritise SA20 ahead of the Test series. Several former cricketers called out South Africa’s move to withdraw top international players from the series. The squad selection sparked a debate about the relevance of the format and if Test cricket had enough to survive in the modern game.
Neil Brand (C), David Bedingham, Ruan de Swardt, Clyde Fortuin, Zubayr Hamza, Tshepo Moreki, Edward Moore, Mihlali Mpongwana, Duanne Olivier, Dane Paterson, Keegan Petersen, Dane Piedt, Raynard van Tonder, Shaun von Berg, Khaya Zondo.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead spoke to the reporters and said that it was a big year for Test cricket for New Zealand both home and away.
“It’s an honour to be involved in any Test match and I know the players are looking forward to the start of a big Test summer – in what is a big year of Test cricket home and away,” Stead said.
