NZ vs IND: Kyle Jamieson earns maiden Test call-up, Boult returns

Following his impressive ODI debut, New Zealand’s tall pace bowler Kyle Jamieson has now received a call-up for the Test side for two matches against India. Nation’s premier pace bowler, Trent Boult, also returns from his right-hand injury which he suffered against Australia in December. Ajaz Patel is also set for a return to the longest format of the game since his last appearance in whites in August 2019.

New Zealand’s Test squad vs India:

Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Latham, Tom Blundell, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, BJ Watling, Colin de Grandhomme, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Trent Boult, Ajaz Patel, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell.

Jamieson earned his maiden call-up after his impressive performances in the A set up and domestic cricket. He featured in two ODIs against India and did no harm to his reputation. His addition now strengthens New Zealand’s pace battery. With Boult back, the visitors will now be facing Boult-Southee-Wagner with Jamieson likely to be in reserves.

Ajaz Patel is the lone spinner in the 13-man squad. The selectors have dropped Mitchell Santner from the squad after poor returns against Australia in the previous series. Opener Jeet Raval and fast bowler Matt Henry have also failed to find a place.

The two-match Test series begins on 21st February and will be a part of the ongoing World Test Championship. India currently lead the table with 360 points from three series. New Zealand languish at the sixth spot with only 60 points in the kitty after two series.

Ishant cleared to play

India’s most senior pace bowler Ishant Sharma has recovered from his ankle injury and will join the India squad in New Zealand. India had already included the 31-year-old in the 16-man squad, with his participation withheld for fitness clearance. Ishant will be an important cog in India’s bowling wheel. He has the experience of playing in New Zealand before and has taken 23 wickets in five Tests played thus far.