New Zealand’s cricketing stalwarts Tim Southee and Kane Williamson are on the brink of a significant milestone as they prepare to play their 100th Test match together during the upcoming home series against Australia. The landmark occasion is slated to occur on March 8, coinciding with the commencement of the second Test in the series.
The 14-member Test squad announced by NZC includes a few notable changes, with Daryl Mitchell making a comeback after recovering from a foot injury. Scott Kuggeleijn has been drafted into the squad as a replacement for the injured Kyle Jamieson.
However, Trent Boult, who is set to feature in the T20I series against Australia, has been excluded from the Test squad due to limited recent red-ball cricket exposure.
Southee and Williamson’s journey from their early cricketing days to becoming leading figures in New Zealand cricket has been remarkable. The duo, who played their 50th Test match together in 2016, will join an elite group of New Zealand cricketers with 100 Test appearances to their credit.
Commenting on their achievement, head coach Gary Stead hailed Southee and Williamson as two of the finest players in New Zealand cricket history, emphasizing their remarkable contributions to the Test team.
The first Test of the series is scheduled to commence on February 29 in Wellington, marking the return of pivotal players like Mitchell, who has emerged as a key performer in the Test squad.
Additionally, Matt Henry and Tim Seifert will miss the T20I series due to injuries, with Ben Sears and Will Young named as their replacements.
As New Zealand gears up for the upcoming contests against Australia, the focus remains on solidifying the squad and maintaining their competitive edge in both formats of the game.