AFG vs NZ: It is time for some red-ball action, as in the next few months we will see some interesting Test series played across the world. The inaugural WTC winner, New Zealand, will have three series in line for the subcontinent.
They will play a one-off test against Afghanistan at the start of September. It will be followed by a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. After that, New Zealand will lock horns with India in a three-match Test series between October and November.
The Black Caps are currently sitting in third place in the ongoing World Test Championship 2023-25, and this will be a very important season for them going ahead. If they can manage a good show, they can fancy their chances to make it to the final of the WTC in England next year.
AFG vs NZ: New Zealand announced squad for Afghanistan and Sri Lanka Tests
The AFG vs NZ one-off test will be played in India at Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground, Greater Noida. This match will be played between September 9 and 13. On Monday, August 12, the New Zealand Cricket Board announced a 15-member squad for the AFG vs NZ one-off test, and a similar squad will feature in the test series against Sri Lanka.
After some good performances, the NZC has rewarded William O’Rourke and Ben Sears with their first overseas assignment. Tim Southee will be leading the team, and Tom Latham will be the vice-captain. With the conditions expected to be spin-friendly, New Zealand have picked up four spinners and Glenn Phillips.
Mitchell Santner, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, and Michael Bracewell are the specialist spinners in the team. Bracewell has been out of action for more than 18 months, but he is completely fit now. The batting order looks very strong with the availability of Kane Williamson, Will Young, Ravindra, Phillips, and Latham.
The Test matches against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka will be important for the ongoing WTC championship. It will also help them to prepare for the three-match series against India. After these away series, New Zealand will host England for three Tests in November and December. Former Pakistani legend Saqlain Mushtaq will join the team for the coming Asian challenge.
AFG vs NZ: New Zealand’s Squad for Afghanistan and Sri Lanka Tests
Tim Southee (captain), Tom Latham (vc), Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Michael Bracewell, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Mitchell Santner, Will Young, Ben Sears
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