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Cricket Australia (CA) has announced a 14-member squad for a two-Test series against New Zealand starting later this month. Fast-bowling all-rounder Michael Neser has been recalled after Lance Morris left the field during the final ODI against West Indies due to a strain in his left leg. Neser has been added to the squad keeping in mind the seamer-friendly conditions of New Zealand.
Neser who has played just two Tests and four ODIs so far made his last Test appearance in December 2022. He has seven wickets in Tests at an average of 16.71 so far. Earlier this year, he played a crucial role in helping Brisbane Heat win the Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24.
"It's great to see Michael Neser get another opportunity in the squad following his ever-consistent performances over a long period of time and the conditions we expect," selection panel chair George Bailey said.
"As we know every Test match provides vital opportunities to obtain valuable WTC points and we expect this tour will be a tough challenge against a very strong side who have been so consistent at home for a long period of time."
Backup opener retains spot
Queensland batter Matt Renshaw has retained his place in the squad as a backup opener. Renshaw did not get a chance to open the innings as Steve Smith was promoted as opener after David Warner’s retirement. Renshaw played his last Test in February 2023 against India where he replaced Warner as concussion substitute but was dismissed for a single-digit score.
The first Test will be played at Basin Reserve, Wellington starting February 29. The second and last Test of the series will be hosted at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. Before the Test series, Australia will play a T20I series against the Kiwis starting February 21.
Chance for Australia to reclaim top spot
Recently, New Zealand dethroned Australia from the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 points table with a win in the second Test against a second-string South Africa. After the historic loss to West Indies at the Gabba, Australia are placed second with six wins, three losses, and one draw from 10 Tests.
Australia Test squad for New Zealand: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc
Australia T20I squad for New Zealand: Mitchell Marsh (c), Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Adam Zampa
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