NZ pick William O'Rourke, Ben Sears for Afghanistan, Sri Lanka Tests

New Zealand Cricket has chosen William O’Rourke and Ben Sears for the Tests against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. Although Tim Southee will lead the squad, he may miss some upcoming matches in the subcontinent. Off-spin all-rounder Michael Bracewell has returned to the Test team after 18 months.

Southee will captain the 15-member squad for the lone Test against Afghanistan and the two Tests against Sri Lanka, which includes five spin bowling options. Given that Southee took only six wickets in four home Tests last season, if he is not part of the playing XI, vice-captain Tom Latham may step up as captain.

The fast bowling duo of William O’Rourke and Ben Sears has been called up for these overseas assignments, while off-spinner Michael Bracewell has also been recalled. Bracewell, who has spent the last 18 months recovering from Achilles and finger injuries, rejoins the squad.

Bracewell will join Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, and off-spinner Glenn Phillips.

There is some uncertainty about whether Kane Williamson will play in the Afghanistan Test, which will be held in Greater Noida.

New Zealand squad: Tim Southee (c), 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