New Zealand recalled seasoned Colin de Grandhomme and Hamish Rutherford and called up wicketkeeper Cam Fletcher and pacer Blair Tickner as cover for regulars in an extended squad for the first Test against South Africa, starting February 17 at Christchurch's Hagley Oval, New Zealand has recalled experienced Colin de Grandhomme and Hamish Rutherford, as well as wicketkeeper Cam Fletcher and bowler Blair Tickner, as cover for regulars in an extended squad.
With the Covid-19 pandemic still running, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) chose to select a larger than usual 15-man squad, allowing selectors to better cover their options while lowering the health risk associated with bringing individuals into the team environment at short notice in case of injury.
Fletcher will be back with the gloves behind the stumps to support the fast bowlers.
Tickner has played in eight T20 internationals for the Black Caps since making his debut in 2019, while Fletcher gets his first call-up after performing for his province and New Zealand A in recent seasons, according to the NZC.
Hamish Rutherford and all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme, who missed much of last season due to a foot injury, have both been recalled, according to the report.
Rutherford has been included as batsman cover in the expanded squad, which will again be captained by Tom Latham, with normal skipper Kane Williamson absent due to an injured 'elbow that hasn't healed in time, and veteran Ross Taylor's retirement.
Trent Boult will miss the first Test due to the birth of his third child, but Ajaz Patel could be called up for the second if conditions allow and he recovers from his left-calf injury.
Ajaz Patel, who took all 10 wickets in an innings against India at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai in December, was left out of the squad, leaving Rachin Ravindra as the only spinner.
Squad for 1st Test: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Cam Fletcher (wk), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Rachin Ravindra, Hamish Rutherford, Tim Southee, Blair Tickner, Neil Wagner, Will Young.