Australia is gearing up for a journey to New Zealand to engage in a Test series, marking their return after an eight-year hiatus.
After an eight-year hiatus, the Trans-Tasman rivalry is poised to reignite as Australia prepares for a month-long tour to New Zealand. Cricket Australia (CA) has unveiled a 14-member squad for the upcoming two-match test series, with all-rounder Michael Neser making a comeback. The Australian selectors have turned to Neser following the team’s unexpected loss to West Indies at Gabba.
Despite being a longstanding member of the Australian setup, Neser has often found himself on the sidelines due to the presence of a formidable pace attack. In a strategic move, opener Mathew Renshaw has also secured a spot in the 14-member squad, serving as a backup opener. This decision comes as part of the Australian management’s plan to extend Steve Smith’s stint as an opener by two more games.
In the 2019-20 season, Australia dominated New Zealand with a convincing 3-0 victory on their home turf. Now, the Kiwis are eager to snatch back the Trans-Tasman trophy, facing an Australian team that might be a bit shaky after their surprising eight-run loss to the West Indies in Brisbane just last month.
Although Michael Neser’s performance in the Sheffield Shield this season hasn’t been stellar, with only nine wickets at an average of 50.33, he is still being seen as the perfect bowler for the anticipated seamer-friendly conditions in New Zealand.
“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,” national selector George Bailey was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
In the midst of it all, fast bowler Lance Morris suffered a side strain in the third ODI against the West Indies. However, George Bailey, the chief selector, suggested that even if Morris were fit, he wouldn’t have been included in the squad. The primary rationale behind this decision is the upcoming tour in the neighboring country. Bailey emphasized that sending a player there wouldn’t be a significant issue if the need arose.
At present, New Zealand holds the top spot in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 points table. Engaged in a two-match test series against South Africa, the Kiwis are gearing up for a compelling cricket season. The inaugural test between Australia and New Zealand is scheduled to commence on February 29th at the Basin Reserve in Wellington, following the T20I series. The second test will unfold at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, promising more riveting cricket action.
Australia squad for New Zealand Tests:
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, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc
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