Nathan Smith Gets First Call-Up, Southee’s Farewell Test Series

Bowling all-rounder Nathan Smith has received his first call-up to New Zealand’s Test squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against England. The first Test is set to start on November 28 at Hagley Oval.

Smith, who made his international debut in an ODI against Sri Lanka in Dambulla on Wednesday, was the top bowler in last year’s Plunket Shield, finishing with 33 wickets at an average of 17. His best first-class bowling figures (6-36) came against Canterbury at Rangiora.

After a match-winning performance in India, Mitchell Santner has been selected as the lead spinner for the second and third Tests, which will be held in Wellington and Hamilton, respectively. In the second Test in Pune, Santner recorded 13 wickets for 157 runs, marking the third-best bowling figures in New Zealand's Test history.

Kane Williamson has returned to the Test squad after recovering from a groin injury.

A seamer will make way for the second and third Tests at the seam-friendly venues of Basin Reserve and Seddon Park, with the Black Caps forming a 13-member squad for each match.

Following a memorable 3-0 series win over India, the Black Caps maintain their hopes of qualifying for the third ICC World Test Championship final. They are currently fourth in the points table, closely trailing second-place India and third-place Sri Lanka.

From the touring squad in India, Ajaz Patel and Ish Sodhi have been left out, as the selectors have chosen a different bowling group suited to home conditions, with Mark Chapman stepping aside for Williamson’s return.

This will be veteran pacer Tim Southee's final Test series, as he has announced plans for his international retirement following the series.

Black Caps selector Sam Wells stated, “This is a major series for the team in terms of the World Test Championship. Additionally, it’s even more special as Tim Southee prepares to say farewell. Tim has made an exceptional contribution throughout his career, and he will always be remembered as one of the best Black Caps players. I am sure the team and fans will want to give him a fitting send-off in this eagerly anticipated series."

“It’s also an exciting time for Nathan as he receives his first inclusion in the Test squad. He is a talented player, and his first-class record is a testament to his skill,” Wells added.

He further explained, “Leaving out Patel after his match-winning performance in Mumbai was tough, but given the home conditions, Santner’s recent form, and the presence of Glenn Phillips, this decision was made."

“Mitch has been outstanding since his return and will draw confidence from his match-winning performance in Pune,” Wells concluded.

New Zealand’s Test Squad for England Series

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

Due to injury rehabilitation, Ben Sears (knee) and Kyle Jamieson (back) were not considered for selection.

Head coach Gary Stead will lead the Black Caps with batting coach Luke Ronchi and bowling coach Jacob Oram.

The Black Caps Test squad will assemble in Christchurch on Monday, November 25, with the first Test at Hagley Oval starting on Thursday, November 28.

New Zealand-England Test Series Schedule

1st Test - Thursday, November 28 to Monday, December 2 - Hagley Oval, Christchurch
2nd Test - Friday, December 6 to Tuesday, December 10 - Basin Reserve, Wellington
3rd Test - Saturday, December 14 to Wednesday, December 18 - Seddon Park, Hamilton