New Zealand announce 15-member squad for Test series against Pakistan
Kane Williamson has stepped down from leadership role [Source: Twitter]
New Zealand have announced their 15-man squad for the upcoming 2-match Test series against Pakistan, scheduled to begin on December 26.
The tour will be Tim Southee's first as Test captain after Kane Williamson earlier announced that he was stepping down from the captaincy role in Tests.
Ish Sodhi has been recalled in the squad, four years from his last outing in New Zealand whites.
The Black Caps have plenty of spin bowling options in the lineup. It is widely expected that both Ajaz Patel and Ish Sodhi will play a major role in the upcoming series. Apart from the duo, Glenn Phillips can also chip in with off spin, and the Kiwis also have Michael Bracewell in the ranks.
Phillips played his only Test match against Australia at the SCG in 2020, scoring a half-century in the first innings.
Just like Sodhi, Phillips has made his name in the shortest format and has played 56 games for his nation.
The pace department will be handled by the experienced trio of Southee, Matt Henry and Neil Wagner. New Zealand are likely to miss the services of Trent Boult who has not been given a central contract, as he wishes to spend more time with his family.
After the two-match Test series, the caravan will shift towards the ODI leg of the tour, starting from January 10. The ODI squad will be announced on Monday.
Also Read: Kane Williamson steps down as New Zealand's Test captain
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