A three-Test series is being played between New Zealand and the West Indies. The first match of the series was a draw. New Zealand won the second match by 9 wickets and took a 1-0 lead. Now the third match of the series between the two teams will be played on December 18th. The Kiwi team already suffered a major blow when Blair Tickner was ruled out due to a shoulder injury and Ajaz Patel has been included in the squad in his place. Tom Blundell has also been given a chance.
Tom Blundell played in the first Test and served as wicketkeeper. He then suffered a hamstring injury, ruling him out of the next match. Mitchell Hay was New Zealand’s wicketkeeper in the second Test. He will now return to the side for the third Test, where he will play in domestic matches.
Ajaz Patel will play a match after a year
Ajaz Patel, on the other hand, played his last Test match against India in 2024, where he took 11 wickets and was also awarded the Player of the Match award. He has now taken a total of 85 wickets in 21 Tests for New Zealand.
New Zealand coach said this
Head coach Rob Walter said, “Ajaz Patel is a player we can rely on. He can do his job well. The Bay Oval pitch typically turns more than other New Zealand pitches. The addition of another spinner will add variety to our bowling attack. Tom has recovered very well from his hamstring injury, and we are delighted to have him back.”
New Zealand’s playing 11 for the third Test against West Indies:
Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Christian Clarke, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Jack Foulkes, Daryl Mitchell, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Michael Ray, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Will Young.