New Zealand have rewarded fast-bowling duo William O’Rourke and Ben Sears with their maiden call-up for two overseas assignments.
The pair, who impressed in whites earlier in 2024, are included in the 15-man squad set to tour India for a one-off Test against Afghanistan, followed by two fixtures in Sri Lanka as part of their ICC Test Championship campaign.
The 23-year-old William O’Rourke made a sensational Test debut, recording the best match figures by a New Zealander with 9/93, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings.
He played only the first Test against Australia in the following series before a groin injury sidelined him.
Ben Sears seized his opportunity in the second Test of that series, where he claimed five wickets.
New Zealand have also recalled off-spinner Michael Bracewell, who spent the last year and a half recovering from Achilles and finger injuries.
Bracewell joins a spin-heavy contingent that includes Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra—all left-arm spinners—and off-spinner Glenn Phillips.
“It’s always exciting when young players earn their spots through strong performances, and I know Will and Ben are eager to take on the challenges of Test cricket in the subcontinent,” said New Zealand head coach Gary Stead.
“Michael has shown great resilience in his rehabilitation and has fought his way back into the BLACK CAPS across all three formats.
His all-round skills and ability to turn the ball away from left-handers make him a valuable asset, especially on the turning pitches we expect in India and Sri Lanka,” Stead added.
New Zealand have assembled their best batting lineup ahead of a demanding period of Test cricket.
Following the two upcoming series in September, they will face India in three Tests across October and November before returning home to host England for three Tests as part of their summer schedule.
With so much Test cricket in challenging conditions, Stead emphasized the importance of workload management, particularly for captain Tim Southee, who may not play in every match.
Kyle Jamieson, meanwhile, was not considered for selection as he continues his recovery from a back injury.
“Test tours in the subcontinent can be particularly tough on pace bowlers due to the pitches, heat, and humidity.
While we remain open-minded about conditions, we recognize that all our bowling options may be required across the different Tests.
Tim and I have discussed the importance of managing the workloads of our pace bowlers, including himself, to best serve the team,” Stead explained.
New Zealand will also welcome Saqlain Mushtaq back to their support staff as bowling coach for the three Tests against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.
James Foster returns as assistant coach, having been with the team during the last two World Cups (ODI and T20I).
Mushtaq previously assisted the team during their 2023 tour of Bangladesh.
Currently third on the ICC Test Championship table, behind Australia and India, New Zealand have crucial points at stake in their upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.
“We understand how vital the points in Sri Lanka are to our chances of reaching the finals in England next year.
After securing one win in the challenging conditions of Bangladesh last December, we’re eager to build on that success.
The entire squad is looking forward to testing their skills in the longest format of the game in the subcontinent,” Stead said.
New Zealand squad:
| Player Name |
|---|
| Tim Southee (Captain) |
| 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 |
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