Henry Nicholls named in New Zealand Test squad against Australia

24-year-old Henry Nicholls has been included in the New Zealand Test squad for the upcoming home series against Australia. The southpaw has also been named in the squad for the World T20 2016. New Zealand coach Mike Hesson sounded confident following Nicholls’ inclusion in the Test squad.

“Henry has been very impressive the way he’s made the step up to international cricket and we’re confident of the job he can do for us in the top order,” said Hesson.

Ross Taylor will miss the opening Test at Christchurch with an injury. BJ Watling, who is currently nursing an injury, is being monitored for selection. Luke Ronchi will be named should Watling be deemed unfit to participate. Hesson however, chose to comment on the returning Tim Southee, Matt Henry and spinner Mitchell Santner.

“We’ve gone for just the one spinner in Mitch and that’s based around what we expect the pitches to play like at Hagley and the Basin. Tim’s a leader within our group and our most experienced bowler, so we’re excited to have him fit and a part of our pace bowling attack.”

“Matt also comes back into the squad after some really strong performances throughout the summer and with Corey’s return we now have a number of seam bowling options to consider.”

He also seemed to be optimistic, saying, “It’s well documented how good a Test side Australia are and we know it will take some exceptional cricket for us to have a chance of taking out the series. It doesn’t get much bigger for all New Zealand fans than a Test Series against Australia.”

The Black Caps take on the Aussies in a two-match Test series scheduled to begin on the 20th of February at Christchurch.

New Zealand Test squad:

Brendon McCullum (C), Corey Anderson, Doug Bracewell, Trent Boult, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling / Luke Ronchi (wk), Kane Williamson