Neser gets a surprise recall for seaming pitches as Australia announces its squad for New Zealand Tests
Michael Neser’s surprise inclusion in the Australia Test squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand signals one thing the selectors are anticipating: lively, seam-friendly pitches at Wellington and Christchurch.
With Lance Morris and Jhye Richardson sidelined by injuries, Neser joins Scott Boland as backup quicks to the established pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. This selection suggests a strategic shift towards bowlers well-suited to exploiting conditions expected to favor swing and movement.
The Black Caps, fresh off a convincing win against South Africa, currently sit above Australia in the World Test Championship standings. They’ll be further bolstered by the return of key players like Kyle Jamieson and their talismanic captain, Kane Williamson, who is in imperious form with six centuries in his last six Tests.
While the foot injury of Daryl Mitchell casts a shadow on New Zealand’s preparations, Australia also has its share of concerns. Opener David Warner and all-rounder Mitchell Starc are rested for the T20 series preceding the Tests, and their availability for the longer format remains unclear.
Australia Test squad for the New Zealand Tour: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, MarnusLabuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc.