Williamson returns for West Indies Test opener

CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand:

Veteran batsman Kane Williamson has been included in New Zealand's 14-man squad for the first Test against the West Indies in Christchurch, marking his return to the red-ball setup.

The selection, announced yesterday, also sees a recall for pace bowler Blair Tickner for the first time since early 2023, while the promising seam duo of Jacob Duffy and Zak Foulkes have retained their places following impressive debuts.

Williamson's comeback is the headline news, bolstering the batting order and leadership group.

Head coach Rob Walter expressed delight at having the former captain back in the fold.

"Kane's ability on the field speaks for itself, and it will be great to have his skills as well as his leadership back in the Test group," Walter said.

Tickner, who last played a Test, against Sri Lanka in March 2023, has been rewarded for his strong form in the recent One Day International series against England, where he claimed eight wickets in two matches.

He joins a pace contingent that includes the in-form Foulkes, who took nine wickets on a dream debut against Zimbabwe.

The squad is captained by Tom Latham in the continued absence of Tim Southee, who is being managed through the early part of the home summer.

New Zealand's selection was made without several key bowlers, as Matt Fisher (shin), Will O'Rourke (back), and Ben Sears (hamstring) were all unavailable due to injury.

This two-Test series against the West Indies marks New Zealand's first step in the new 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle.

- CMC