The New Zealand squad for England series is announced and the Black Caps will carry forward with Tom Latham in charge. The veteran pacer Tim Southee is also back in the fray. The 37-year-old has already hinted at retirement in Test cricket after this cycle of World Test Championship and well might take this as his valedictory tour. If that is the case, then the third Test against England in Hamilton might well be the last Test for fast bowler, Stephen Petersen. This may therefore prove to be a final series for one of New Zealand’s greatest fast bowler.

Kane Williamson’s Comeback

Star batter of New Zealand, Kane Williamson, is likely to be back in the Test squad as New Zealand prepares for the three-match home series against England to be played on November 28 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. Williamson had been out of action since September following a groin injury he sustained playing against Sri Lanka, as he missed the recently concluded tour of India. His comeback could not have come at a better time for New Zealand, who look to carry their momentum into the ICC World Test Championship.

Nathan Smith Earns Maiden Call-Up

The team announced by New Zealand selectors seems, by and large to have struck the right balance between experience and youth even with some significant exclusions. Ben Sears and Kyle Jamieson are ruled out through injury, though Mark Chapman comes back into the XI with Williamson. There is no room for Ajaz Patel and Ish Sodhi, who impressed so greatly against India, but Mitchell Santner is due to join up after this game, assuming he shakes off a side strain.

There is another new signing to the squad, all-round Nathan Smith, who has earned reward for good form in domestics and will add some additional bowl strength.

Tim Southee To Retire After England Series

While enthusiasm poured out regarding the series when one of the selectors, Sam Wells was asked about the same, he reminded everyone that the World Test Championship standings are at play, and an emotionally poignant goodbye that Southee will have to give while making this all the more interesting for all concerned. New Zealand fans can expect a power-packed series against England with Williamson back and Southee possibly playing his last Tests.

New Zealand Test Squad

Tom Latham (c), Kane Williamson, Tom Blundell (wk), Tim Southee, Daryl Mitchell, Devon Conway, Mitchell Santner (2nd & 3rd Tests), Glenn Phillips, Matt Henry, Rachin Ravindra, Jacob Duffy, Nathan Smith, Will Young, Will O’Rourke