Wellington: New Zealand Cricket has announced a 19-member squad for the upcoming Test tours of Ireland and England, with the return of fast bowlers Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke.

The squad also features a maiden call-up for uncapped all-rounder Dean Foxcroft, signalling a blend of experience and fresh talent as New Zealand gear up for a busy red-ball schedule.

Key returns strengthen pace attack

Jamieson makes his return to Test cricket after more than two years, having recovered from a back stress fracture sustained in early 2024. The tall pacer has been gradually reintroduced through domestic cricket with Canterbury and is now ready for international duties.

O’Rourke also rejoins the squad following a lengthy injury layoff. His recent appearances for New Zealand A and in ODIs indicated a successful recovery, prompting selectors to include him in the Test setup.

The pace unit is further bolstered by names such as Matt Henry, Ben Sears, Blair Tickner and Nathan Smith, giving the team a strong pool of fast-bowling options.

Williamson returns, Foxcroft earns maiden call-up

Former captain Kane Williamson has been included in the squad, adding experience and stability to the batting lineup.

Meanwhile, Dean Foxcroft’s selection marks a significant milestone in his career. The all-rounder has impressed consistently in domestic cricket and during recent international assignments, earning his first Test call-up.

Batter Henry Nicholls also returns after a prolific domestic season, strengthening the middle order.

Historic Ireland Test outside WTC cycle

New Zealand will play a one-off four-day Test against Ireland in Belfast starting May 27. Notably, this will be New Zealand’s first-ever Test match on Irish soil.

However, the match will not be part of the ongoing World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle, making it a standalone fixture.

Players such as Kristian Clarke, Michael Rae and Will Young will feature only in the Ireland Test, providing an opportunity for squad rotation and experimentation.

England series to follow

Following the Ireland fixture, New Zealand will travel to England for a three-match Test series beginning at Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 4.

The series will also mark the second edition of the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy, introduced in 2024 to honour cricketing greats Martin Crowe and Graham Thorpe.

Notable absentees

The squad will be without all-rounder Michael Bracewell, who has opted out of red-ball cricket. Fast bowler Jacob Duffy is also unavailable as he awaits the birth of his first child.

Full squad announced

The 19-member squad includes Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell (wicketkeeper), Devon Conway, Zak Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson and others, with a few players assigned specifically for the Ireland Test.

Conclusion

The return of key pacers and the inclusion of emerging talent reflect New Zealand’s intent to build a balanced and competitive squad for challenging overseas conditions. With a historic Test in Ireland and a crucial series in England ahead, the team will aim to make a strong statement in the red-ball format.

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