New Zealand allrounder Daryl Mitchell is anticipated to recuperate from a foot damage in time for the Tests in opposition to Australia later in February whereas Scott Kuggeleijn will substitute injured quick bowler Kyle Jamieson.
Mitchell missed New Zealand’s second Test in opposition to South Africa whereas he may also sit out the upcoming T20 worldwide collection in opposition to Australia as they give the impression of being to present his foot time to heal.
“Everything is tracking well with Daryl. The decision to give him a period of rehabilitation was necessary and will allow him to be at his best for what is an important series for the team,” selector Sam Wells stated.
“Daryl will keep focusing on his rehabilitation over the next week and will be fit and ready for the first Test in Wellington.
Meanwhile, Kuggeleijn returns to the red-ball side following his debut a year ago after a stress fracture in the back ruled Jamieson out for the rest of the season.
Kuggeleijn, 32, has been the leading bowler in the Plunket Shield with 22 wickets while he also smashed an unbeaten ton and took nine wickets in a four-day Test against an Australia A side last year.
Fast bowler Will O’Rourke also made the 14-man squad after a sensational debut against South Africa where he picked up nine wickets in the game while fast bowler Trent Boult missed out due to his lack of Test cricket action in recent months.
The series will also be a landmark one for skipper Tim Southee and Kane Williamson, who are set to pick up their 100th caps in the second Test.
Only Stephen Fleming, Daniel Vettori, Brendon McCullum and Ross Taylor have reached the milestone for New Zealand.
New Zealand will host world champions Australia in two Tests starting on February 29 in Wellington and March 8 in Christchurch.
NEW ZEALAND SQUAD FOR TESTS AGAINST AUSTRALIA
Tim Southee (captain), Tom Blundell (wicketkeeper), Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Scott Kuggeleijn, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
