New Zealand Playing XI for Test Series against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka (Predicted)

New Zealand cricket team gears up for a demanding series of Test matches in the subcontinent. The Black Caps are set to face Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and India in a packed Test schedule.

New Zealand’s subcontinent tour begins with a one-off Test against Afghanistan, followed by two Tests against Sri Lanka, and concluding with a three-Test series against India. Head coach Gary Stead has named a 15-player squad, emphasizing spin-bowling options to adapt to the expected conditions in the subcontinent.

New Zealand Playing XI for Test Series against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka

1. Devon Conway
2. Tom Latham
3. Kane Williamson
4. Rachin Ravindra
5. Daryl Mitchell
6. Tom Blundell
7. Michael Bracewell/Glenn Phillips
8. Mitchell Santner
9. Tim Southee
10. Ajaz Patel
11. Matt Henry

New Zealand Test Squad for Afghanistan and Sri Lanka Series

Tim Southee (capt), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Kane Williamson, Will Young.

The squad includes five spin-bowling options, marking the return of off-spin all-rounder Michael Bracewell after an 18-month hiatus from Test cricket. Stead emphasized Bracewell’s importance in the squad.

Joining Southee in the fast-bowling department are Matt Henry and newcomers Ben Sears and Will O’Rourke. Meanwhile, Kyle Jamieson remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a back stress fracture. “It’s always exciting when young players earn their place in the squad through strong performances. I know Will and Ben are eager to embrace the challenges of Test cricket in the subcontinent,” Stead concluded.

Additionally, the team will have former Pakistani spinner Saqlain Mushtaq as the bowling coach for the three away Tests, and former England wicketkeeper James Foster as an assistant coach.