Cricket: Debutants named in Black Caps test squad

Rob Nicol has played eight ODIs and eight T20s for New Zealand. Photo / Getty Images

Two debutants have been named in the Black Caps squad for the first test against South Africa starting in Dunedin starting next week.

The squad includes the ten players who started against Zimbabwe along with Rob Nicol and Andrew Ellis who are uncapped at Test level. Brent Arnel returns to the squad while Dean Brownlie wasn't considered due to injury.

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Jesse Ryder wasn't considered due to a lack of form while Kruger van Wyk, who was in the squad for the one-off test against Zimbabwe, misses out.

National Selection Manager Kim Littlejohn said: "We are pleased with the way the Test team has performed this summer and this group is looking forward to the challenge of continuing that success.

"Both Rob and Andrew have shown promise against South Africa in limited overs cricket and we believe they can transfer their form across to the Test matches.

"Sam Wells, who was part of the squad who played Zimbabwe, is unlucky to miss out but we decided to include players will a bit more cricket under their belt. He still remains part of our thinking for the future."

One player will be added if required to bring the squad up to the full complement of 14 players.

New Zealand:
Ross Taylor (c), Brent Arnel, Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Andrew Ellis, Martin Guptill, Chris Martin, Brendon McCullum, Rob Nicol, Tim Southee, Daniel Vettori, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson.

- HERALD ONLINE