Williamson Returns for West Indies Tests; Jamieson Held Back as NZ Name 14-Man Squad

Kane Williamson has been recalled to New Zealand’s squad for the opening Test against West Indies in Christchurch, marking his return to red-ball cricket after missing the recent series in Zimbabwe. Pace bowler Blair Tickner has also earned a recall—his first since early 2023—while Kyle Jamieson has been deliberately rested as he continues a carefully managed comeback from a long-term back injury.

New Zealand have opted for a strong pace contingent, with Jacob Duffy and Zak Foulkes included in the 14-man group. Foulkes impressed on debut against Zimbabwe with a nine-wicket match haul, but selectors have resisted rushing Jamieson back, maintaining a cautious approach as he builds red-ball workloads.

Glenn Phillips, who recently returned to domestic cricket in the Plunket Shield, remains sidelined from Test contention as he recovers full fitness following a groin issue. Daryl Mitchell, however, has overcome his own injury concerns and returns to the squad.

Williamson, currently on a casual NZC contract, had skipped New Zealand’s last Test assignment to play in the Hundred. After announcing his T20I retirement earlier in the year, he featured in the first two ODIs against England before suffering a groin strain. Head coach Rob Walter welcomed his return, saying Williamson’s “ability and leadership speak for themselves” and confirming he will play for Northern Districts before the first Test.

Tickner, who last played Test cricket against Sri Lanka in 2023, re-entered selection contention after a strong ODI return—taking eight wickets in two matches against England. Walter said both Tickner and Duffy “know what it takes to perform at the highest level” and backed them to step up if required. He also praised Foulkes’ outstanding debut and recent white-ball form.

Several bowlers were unavailable due to injury, with Matt Fisher (shin), Will O’Rourke (back), and Ben Sears (hamstring) all ruled out.

The two-Test West Indies series will mark the beginning of New Zealand’s 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle.

New Zealand squad for 1st Test vs West Indies:
Tom Latham (capt), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, Will Young.