New Zealand star batter Kane Williamson will return to Tests in the upcoming three-match Test series against England while allrounder Nathan Smith has earned his maiden call-up in Test cricket. Williamson had missed New Zealand’s 3-0 series whitewash over India last month due to a groin injury that he had sustained in Sri Lanka as well. He also underwent rehabilitation to be declared fully fit for the home season, returning to the team in place of Mark Chapman as well.

Nathan, 26, meanwhile, recently made his international debut in the first ODI against Sri Lanka where he conceded 66 runs in the eight overs he bowled while scoring only nine with the bat as well. However, Smith was the standout bowler for Wellington in the Plunkett Shield with 33 wickets at an average of 17 as well.

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Meanwhile, Mitchell Santner who played a key role in New Zealand’s victory in Pune by picking up figures of 13-157 in the match, will be the main spinner in the second and third Test at Wellington and Hamilton respectively as well. Santner has not been picked for the series opener at Christchurch as well. On the other hand, this will be the swansong series for Tim Southee who is set to retire from Test cricket as well.

Series Schedule:

1st Test – November 28 – December 2 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch

2nd Test – December 6 – December 10 at Cello Basin Reserve, Wellington

3rd Test – December 14-December 18 at Seddon Park, Hamilton

New Zealand Test Squad: Tom Latham (C), Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner (2nd & 3rd Tests), Nathan Smith, Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young