New Zealand Add Sam Wells To Test Squad

New Zealand Add Sam Wells To Test Squad

New Zealand are aiming to build on their narrow victory over Australia in their previous Test match when they play Zimbabwe

©REUTERS / Action Images

New Zealand have added uncapped Otago all-rounder Sam Wells to their squad for the Test match against Zimbabwe which begins in Napier on 26th January.

Wells has impressed the New Zealand coaching staff during the three-day game between New Zealand A and the touring Zimbabweans and his inclusion completes the 13-player squad for the one-off Test.

"Sam is a talented all-rounder and we are confident if the opportunity arises he will perform well at international level for New Zealand," coach John Wright said.

"He has impressed during the three-day match in Gisborne with the bat and his skills with the ball will give good balance to the side."

Wells scored 65 and five not out as well as taking a wicket as the tour game was drawn.

New Zealand scored 272 for seven declared with BJ Watling also making 84 before the Zimbabweans replied with 329 all out.

Regis Chakabva (87 not out), Tatenda Taibu (66) and Malcolm Waller (58) all scored half-centuries.

The runs continued to flow when New Zealand batted again, Kruger van Wyk making 61, Kane Williamson 52, Ross Taylor 51 and Daniel Vettori 41 not out as the hosts closed on 274 for five.

New Zealand Test squad: Ross Taylor (captain), Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Dean Brownlie, Martin Guptill, Chris Martin, Brendon McCullum, Tim Southee, Daniel Vettori, Kruger van Wyk, BJ Watling, Sam Wells, Kane Williamson

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