Matt Fisher earns maiden call-up to New Zealand Test squad for Zimbabwe series

Matt Fisher has received his first call-up to the New Zealand Test team, named in the 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match series against Zimbabwe. There are few major changes from the squad that faced England, with the most notable additions being spinner Ajaz Patel and batter Henry Nicholls.

The 24-year-old Fisher is already regarded as one of New Zealand’s fastest bowlers. Despite playing just 14 first-class matches so far, he has picked up 51 wickets at an impressive average of 24.11. He started this Plunket Shield season in excellent form, claiming 14 wickets at 17.71 across just three matches before an injury sidelined him.

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter expressed his excitement about Fisher’s inclusion:

“We’re really thrilled about Matt. His pace, his X-factor—all of it adds a new dimension to our team. We have a lot of quality fast bowlers in this country, and we’re eager to see Matt compete among them.”

Following Tim Southee’s retirement from Tests, New Zealand’s pace attack is undergoing a transition. Alongside Fisher in the squad are Nathan Smith, who has played two Tests, and Jacob Duffy, who is yet to debut. Ben Sears, who has one Test cap, misses the tour due to injury, while Kyle Jamieson will be unavailable as he stays home with his expectant wife.

New Zealand will also be without Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell for this series. Williamson is resting to manage his playing workload, while Bracewell will be competing in England’s 'The Hundred' tournament.

However, experienced players Ajaz Patel and Henry Nicholls make their return. Patel last played in November against India, where he produced a superb 11-wicket match haul. Nicholls returns after nearly seven months away from Test cricket; he has 56 Test caps and 9 centuries to his name.

New Zealand Test squad:
Tom Latham, Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Will Young.