NZ vs WI 2025: Kane Williamson to return to Test cricket after year-long absence

Published - 24 Nov 2025, 10:45 IST | Updated - 24 Nov 2025, 10:52 IST

Amongst others, Kane Williamson has also been announced in New Zealand's 14-member squad for the first Test of the upcoming series against West Indies. The experienced batter last played a Test match in December 2024.

The senior cricketer had opted out of the red-ball series against Zimbabwe earlier in July this year. In a bid to be ready for the challenge, Wlliamson will be turning up for Northern Districts in the second round of the ongoing Plunket Shield against Auckland, a four-day fixture, to prepare himself for the assignment against the Windies.

Head coach Rob Walter spoke highly of Williamson's qualities of experience and batting skills and was excited to have him back within the Test squad.

"Kane's ability on the field speaks for itself and it will be great to have his skills as well as his leadership back in the Test group," stated Walter, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

Speaking of the rest of the squad, the trio of Jacob Duffy, Zakary Foulkes and Blair Tickner have also been included. Daryl Mitchell is also a part of the squad. He has recovered from a minor groin niggle sustained during the 50-over leg against West Indies.

The duo of Glenn Phillips and Kyle Jamieson were not considered for selection. The two have not fully recovered from their respective injuries and are yet to be completely match-fit to participate. Meanwhile, Will O'Rourke, Ben Sears, Matt Fisher are yet to recover from their back, hamstring and shin injuries, respectively.

The first Test will be played at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch from December. The next two matches will be played from December 10 (Wellington) and December 18 (Mount Maunganui), respectively. The third match will mark the end of the all-format series. New Zealand have won both the T20I and ODI series by scorelines of 3-1 and 3-0, respectively.

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