new zealand Has announced his team for the third and final Test against west indiesTwo experienced campaigners are making a timely comeback. The addition of the duo adds depth and balance to the squad as the Black Caps look to win the series at home after taking a 1-0 lead. The decisive match will be played at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui from 18 December.
Ajaz Patel returns after changes due to injury
left arm spinner Ajaz Patel Has been recalled to the Test team in place of the fast bowler blair ticknerWho has been ruled out due to a dislocated shoulder during the recently concluded second Test. Tickner’s injury has forced the selectors into a change, and Patel’s return provides New Zealand with a proven spin option in the final encounter.
Patel brings experience and control, especially valuable in longer formats where patience and consistency often decide the outcome. His most recent Test appearance in November 2024 ended on a high, with the spinner earning player of the match honors for a decisive performance. With the conditions at Mount Maunganui traditionally favoring the latter half of the game, Patel will hope to have a strong bid to make the playing eleven.
Tom Blundell returns to strengthen the wicketkeeping unit
wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell He has also been included in the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury suffered during the opening Test of the series. New Zealand’s first-choice Test wicketkeeper Blundell missed the second match as a precaution, paving the way for Mitch Hay to make his international debut.
Hay impressed with his composure behind the stumps, but with Blundell now fit, the veteran is ready to resume promotional duties. Hay will return to Canterbury to continue his domestic commitments, while Blundell’s return will restore stability to the middle order and leadership behind the wicket.
Also read: New Zealand beats West Indies to take 1-0 lead in second Test, leaving fans furious
Consistency rewarded after series momentum
Apart from two changes, there is no change in the rest of the players of the team that led New Zealand to a crucial win in the second Test. That win gave the hosts a 1-0 lead after the opening match ended in a thrilling draw, taking the series to the final.
captain Tom Latham Continues to lead a balanced team with a strong line-up of batsmen and all-rounders. kane williamsonDevon Conway, Daryl Mitchell And Rachin Ravindra Provide depth and flexibility with the bat, while glen phillips And Michael Bracewell Add multidimensional options. Speed ​​Department, headed by jacob duffy and supported by zak faulx And michael raeSafe and sound. With the series underway, New Zealand will be keen to maintain the momentum and make full use of the home conditions.
New Zealand team for the third test:
Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Christian Clarke, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Jack Foulkes, Daryl Mitchell, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rai, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
