New Zealand have announced a 14-player squad for their upcoming home two-match series against India, part of the ICC World Test Championship. According to icc-cricket.com, straitstimes.com, and channelnewsasia.com, the fixtures will see experienced skipper Tom Latham leading the Black Caps, with the opening contest scheduled to start in Wellington on 19 November.
Squad composition and fitness updates
According to icc-cricket.com, the 14-player group features Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Tom Blundell despite current fitness issues. Blundell is dealing with a quadricep concern, Conway has been managing a concussion, and Ravindra is navigating a shoulder problem.
Fast bowler Jacob Duffy has returned to the playing group. The squad remains comparable to the side that played England away from home earlier in the middle of the year, though several notable players miss out. icc-cricket.com reported that Ben Sears is absent due to an ankle problem, Zak Foulkes is out with a hip issue, and Will O'Rourke is being managed.
Standings and World Test Championship stakes
This two-match contest marks the first Test meeting between the two sides since New Zealand earned a 3-0 series victory over India in the sub-continent in 2024. Both teams remain contenders to qualify for next year's World Test Championship Final scheduled to take place at The Oval.
On the current World Test Championship table, New Zealand occupy second place, sitting behind table-toppers South Africa. India are positioned in fourth place, with reigning runners-up Australia holding third. According to icc-cricket.com, New Zealand coach Rob Walter recognizes the importance of the series as the team attempts to reach the final for the first time since winning the inaugural title in 2021.
Full announced New Zealand squad
Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Will Young.