New Zealand‘s Test captain, Tim Southee, might be left out of certain matches during the team’s upcoming subcontinent tour, depending on the conditions, as the team management looks to strike the right balance in their playing XI. The decision comes as the Blackcaps prepare for a one-off Test against Afghanistan and a two-match series against Sri Lanka, both likely to be held in Galle, followed by three Tests against India.
Southee, who will lead a 15-player squad featuring five spin-bowling options, could potentially be benched in some matches due to the challenging conditions that subcontinent pitches present to pace bowlers. New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, acknowledged the difficulties that pace bowlers face in the subcontinent’s heat and humidity, and the need to manage their workloads carefully.
“Test tours to the subcontinent can ask some really tough questions of pace bowlers due to the nature of the pitches and the heat and humidity,” Stead explained. “While we’re going over with an open mind around conditions, there is an understanding that all our bowling options may be needed across the different Tests. Tim and I have discussed this, and the need during these overseas tours to balance the workloads of the pace-bowlers, including himself, to ensure the team is best served.”
If Southee does not feature in the playing XI, vice-captain Tom Latham is expected to take on the leadership role. Latham, who has previously led the side, would bring experience and stability to the captaincy in Southee’s absence.
Spin-Heavy Squad Announced
The New Zealand squad announced for the Afghanistan and Sri Lanka series includes a strong spin contingent, with off-spin allrounder Michael Bracewell making a return after 18 months. The squad also features Ajaz Patel, Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips, all of whom are expected to play crucial roles on what are anticipated to be turning tracks.
Pace options alongside Southee include Matt Henry, who was outstanding against Australia with 17 wickets in two matches last season, and the promising duo of Ben Sears and Will O’Rourke, who impressed on their Test debuts. However, Kyle Jamieson, recovering from a stress fracture of the back, was not considered for selection.
Kane Williamson, who had been uncertain for the Afghanistan Test, has been included in the squad, bringing his wealth of experience and skill to the batting lineup.
Coaching Staff Reinforced
In preparation for the challenges ahead, Saqlain Mushtaq will rejoin the New Zealand coaching staff as the bowling coach for the three away Tests, while former England wicketkeeper James Foster returns as an assistant coach.
The Afghanistan Test, which is not part of the World Test Championship (WTC), will be played from September 9-13, followed by the Sri Lanka Tests from September 18-22 and 26-30. New Zealand, currently third in the WTC standings, will aim to strengthen their position as they push towards next June’s final at Lord’s. Following the subcontinent tour, the Blackcaps will return home for a series against England starting in late November.
New Zealand Test Squad to Face Afghanistan and Sri Lanka:
- Tim Southee (captain)
- Tom Blundell
- Michael Bracewell
- Devon Conway
- Matt Henry
- Tom Latham
- Daryl Mitchell
- Will O’Rourke
- Ajaz Patel
- Glenn Phillips
- Rachin Ravindra
- Mitchell Santner
- Ben Sears
- Kane Williamson
- Will Young
As New Zealand embarks on this demanding tour, the team’s adaptability and strategic management of player workloads will be crucial in navigating the challenges of subcontinental cricket.
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