Nicol And Ellis Included In New Zealand Test Squad

Nicol And Ellis Included In New Zealand Test Squad

Rob Nicol is in line for a Test debut in Dunedin following impressive performances in ODI cricket

©REUTERS / Action Images

Uncapped players Rob Nicol and Andrew Ellis have been included in New Zealand's 13-man squad for the opening Test against South Africa in Dunedin on Wednesday (7th March).

Captain Ross Taylor, who has not played since damaging a calf muscle in the one-off Test against Zimbabwe, also returns to the lead the side.

Nicol and Ellis have both impressed during one-day series against Zimbabwe and South Africa and could be given an opportunity at the highest level as Dean Brownlie (fractured finger) and Sam Wells miss out.

Quick bowler Brent Arnel also make a return to the squad having missed the game against Zimbabwe, which New Zealand won by an innings and 301 runs.

"We are pleased with the way the Test team has performed this summer and this group is looking forward to the challenge of continuing that success," National Selection Manager Kim Littlejohn said.

"Both Rob and Andrew have shown promise against South Africa in limited overs cricket and we believe they can transfer their form across to the Test matches.

"Sam Wells, who was part of the squad who played Zimbabwe, is unlucky to miss out but we decided to include players will a bit more cricket under their belt.   He still remains part of our thinking for the future."

Nicol has made an outstanding start to his One-Day International career, scoring two centuries and a half-centuries in his first seven innings including a top score of 146. He has also played eight Twenty20 Internationals since making his debut in 2010.

Ellis, meanwhile, has played four ODIs with a highest score of 33 and a single Twenty20 International but with 55 first-class matches and 85 limited overs games behind him, offers plenty of experience to the Black Caps.

The seletion panel may add a further player to the squad ahead of the game, which begins on 7th March.

New Zealand Test squad: Ross Taylor (captain), Brent Arnel, Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Andrew Ellis, Martin Guptill, Chris Martin, Brendon McCullum, Rob Nicol, Tim Southee, Daniel Vettori, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson

© Cricket World 2012