New Zealand make a couple of changes in the squad for the Windies series

The Kiwis have announced a replacement for injured wicketkeeper BJ Watling in Tom Blundell and have also called in quick bowler Lockie Ferguson as a precautionary cover for Tim Southee for the home Test series against the Windies. The New Zealand selector Gavin Larsen mentioned that Tom has worked hard in the last 12 months as observed in the domestic circuit. He also stated the reason for Lockie Ferguson’s inclusion, as Southee might be unavailable because the paceman is expecting the birth of his child.

The selectors had on November 15 named a 12-man squad for the Test series, which included Watling but was subject to him clearing the fitness tests. Blundell has the experience of a single T20I match against Bangladesh, earlier this year. On the other hand, Ferguson has played 6 ODIs and 1 T20I and can make his Test debut if Southee is unavailable.

Larsen has complete faith in Blundell

Larsen justified the selection of Tom Blundell stating that he has worked hard on his keeping skills in the past twelve months. He also stated that Watling’s fitness is still a major concern for the hosts and he will need some more time to gain proper fitness. The selector also stated that the latter will be donning the gloves for his domestic side.

“Tom’s worked hard on his game and we’ve seen his wicketkeeping, in particular, really develop over the past 12 months. BJ is still working his way back to full fitness and hopefully he gets some time with the gloves for Northern Districts soon,” said Larsen after announcing the changes as quoted by Sportskeeda.

He also revealed that Ferguson has been performing well in the domestic games and has worked a lot on his pace and accuracy. The bowler also had a decent A tour in India and has been in form recently.

“With Tim (Southee) awaiting the birth of his child, his availability is still uncertain at this point, so Lockie helps keep our bases covered. Lockie’s been in good form domestically and showed good signs for New Zealand A as well. His extra pace brings a slightly different dimension to the attack,” added Larsen.

New Zealand will host the Windies for 2 Tests, 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is, that starts on December 1.

New Zealand squad:

Kane Williamson (C), Jeet Raval, Tom Latham, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tom Blundell (WK), Colin de Grandhomme, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Neil Wagner, Lockie Ferguson