New Zealand Announce Squad for Zimbabwe Test Series as Matthew Fisher Earns Maiden Call-Up

New Zealand have named their squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe, with 25-year-old right-arm pacer Matthew Fisher earning his first call-up to the national side. The promising fast bowler has impressed in domestic cricket, taking 51 wickets in just 14 first-class matches at an average of 24.11.

New head coach Rob Walter expressed his excitement over Fisher’s inclusion, highlighting the youngster’s pace and potential. According to Walter, Fisher is among the fastest bowlers in New Zealand and brings a unique x-factor to the side. The coach emphasized that this tour would offer valuable experience to Fisher as he begins his journey at the international level.

The series will mark a transitional phase for New Zealand, with several senior players unavailable. Veteran fast bowler Tim Southee has retired, while regulars like Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell have opted out of the tour. Kyle Jamieson is taking time off to be with family ahead of the birth of his first child, and Ben Sears has been ruled out due to injury.

Walter acknowledged that the absence of big names is significant but also noted the opportunity it creates for other players to step up. He explained that both Williamson and Bracewell had communicated their unavailability during the contracting process and that the non-inclusion of these matches in the ICC World Test Championship played a role in the final squad decisions.

Despite the changes, New Zealand will still rely on experienced Test players like Ajaz Patel and Henry Nicholls. Patel, who last played for the Black Caps during their 3-0 series win over India in November, returns after a strong showing. Nicholls, meanwhile, reenters the Test squad for the first time since December 2023.

The team is set to assemble in Bulawayo on July 27, following the conclusion of the T20I tri-series in Harare. The first Test will be played from July 30 to August 3, followed by the second Test from August 7 to 11, both in Bulawayo.

New Zealand squad for Zimbabwe Test series:

Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matthew Fisher, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Will Young.