New Zealand include four spinners in 15-man squad to tour Sri Lanka
The Kiwis have picked four spinners in their 15-man squad for the two-Test series to face Sri Lanka. Head coach Gary Stead pointed out that New Zealand are only following in the footsteps of England and South Africa, who toured Sri Lanka with three spinners playing at once and finding success.
New Zealand will play a two-Test series in Sri Lanka. The first Test, starting on August 14 at Galle, will mark both sides’ first taste of the ICC World Test Championship. The second match will commence on August 22, at Colombo PSS.
The Kiwi 15-man squad for the tour includes four specialist spinners, and only three frontline fast bowlers. William Somerville and Ajaz Patel, who played decisive roles in their historic 2-1 series win over Pakistan in the UAE, maintain their place in the squad. The duo picked up a combined 20 wickets in the series. They are joined by leg-spinner Todd Astle, and Mitchell Santner, who is returning to the longer format for the first time since December 2017.
"Playing three spinners is an option in Sri Lankan conditions and we believe this group provides the best variations and skill mix on offer," New Zealand coach Gary Stead said. "England were playing three spinners against Sri Lanka on their successful visit there last year and the slow bowlers also dominated the previous series against South Africa," Stead said, reported Cricbuzz.
Trent Boult, Tim Southee, and Neil Wagner will provide impetus with their pace, while Colin de Grandhomme will feature as the all-rounder. Lockie Ferguson, who had an excellent World Cup campaign, is a notable absentee. While BJ Watling continues as the first-choice wicketkeeper, Tom Blundell has been picked as the backup option. Blundell hit a century on his Test debut against the West Indies in 2017.
After the heartbreak in the World Cup final, Stead believes it is time for the group to move forward. With the onset of the Test Championship, every team will be on their heels to capitalize on every possible opportunity.
"It's good timing for us after the World Cup. It was an incredible time for the team and the country, but we're now excited to move forward as a group and sink our teeth into another opportunity," Stead added.
New Zealand Squad: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Jeet Raval, Will Somerville, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling
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