New Zealand Cricket announce squad for the two-Test series against India, Jacob Duffy returns
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have announced a 14-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against India, with fast bowler Jacob Duffy returning to the red-ball setup. Experienced opener Tom Latham will captain the Black Caps as they prepare for a challenging home series carrying crucial ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points.
Jacob Duffy returns to New Zealand’s Test squad
Duffy’s inclusion is one of the notable developments in the squad announcement. The fast bowler missed New Zealand’s tour of England earlier this year after taking time away for the birth of his first child. His return adds another pace option to a bowling attack that already features Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Nathan Smith and Blair Tickner.
New Zealand’s selectors have largely retained the group that enjoyed a successful Test tour of England. The continuity should help the team maintain its balance as it prepares to face India’s technically strong batting lineup.
However, the squad will be without Ben Sears, Zak Foulkes and Will O’Rourke. Sears is recovering from an ankle injury, Foulkes has a hip injury, while O’Rourke is following a return-to-play programme.
Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway and Tom Blundell included in New Zealand’s Test squad
New Zealand have also included Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway and wicketkeeper-batter Tom Blundell despite fitness concerns.
Ravindra is recovering from a shoulder injury, Conway has been working his way back after suffering a concussion, and Blundell is managing a quadriceps problem. All three are aiming to be available for the opening Test, although their final participation will depend on their recovery and fitness assessments.
Their availability would be crucial for the Blackcaps. Conway offers stability at the top of the order, Ravindra provides batting depth and left-arm spin, while Blundell brings experience behind the stumps and valuable contributions with the bat.
The squad also includes experienced performers such as Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner, giving New Zealand a flexible combination of batting, spin and seam-bowling options.
New Zealand Test squad for India series
Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell (wicket-keeper), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Will Young.
New Zealand vs India, Test Series: Schedule
The opening Test will be played at Wellington’s Basin Reserve from November 19 to 23. The second match will take place at Hagley Oval in Christchurch from November 27 to December 2.
The series will be the first Test meeting between the two sides since New Zealand’s historic 3-0 victory in India in 2024. With both teams pursuing a place in the 2027 World Test Championship final, the upcoming contests carry considerable significance.
New Zealand will hope their home advantage and returning players help them secure valuable points, while India will aim to respond strongly against a side that has proved difficult to beat in recent Test encounters.
