NZ vs WI 2025: Glenn Phillips returns as New Zealand announces squad for Wellington Test

NZ vs WI 2025: Glenn Phillips returns as New Zealand announces squad for Wellington Test. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

New Zealand has revealed its squad for the second Test against the West Indies in Wellington, with the return of star all-rounder Glenn Phillips. With several players unavailable due to injuries, the Black Caps have opted for a new 14-member group.

The hosts have been forced into multiple changes after a series of injuries to their senior players. The upcoming Wellington Test, starting on Wednesday, presents an opportunity for New Zealand to revamp its lineup while also welcoming Phillips.

The all-rounder has been out of the national setup since the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year. He had been managing a groin issue, which kept him away from the longest format for nearly a year. His most recent Test appearance came in December last year against England in Hamilton.

Phillips’ comeback comes after New Zealand missed contributors across departments. Matt Henry, Nathan Smith, Tom Blundell, and Mitchell Santner have all been ruled out due to injuries, leaving significant gaps in both the bowling attack and the middle order.

With Blundell unavailable, young wicketkeeper Mitch Hay is expected to don the gloves for the first time in Test cricket. The pace unit sees uncapped fast bowlers Kristian Clarke and Michael Rae, who have been added to the squad, joining Jacob Duffy. Both Clarke and Rae have been notable performers in New Zealand’s domestic cricket.

Amid all the changes, names like Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, and Rachin Ravindra are available for the game. Notably, the first Test ended in a draw after the visitors put on a brilliant batting display.

New Zealand squad for second Test:

Tom Latham (c), Michael Bracewell, Kristian Clarke, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, Rachin Ravindra, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, Will Young

West Indies squad:

Roston Chase (c), Jomel Warrican (vc), Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Ojay Shields

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