New Zealand Names Squad for Test Series Against South Africa, CSK’s Rachin Ravindra Takes New Role

In preparation for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has unveiled a 13-member squad that includes some noteworthy changes and returns.

The Blackcaps are set to host South Africa in a two-match Test series commencing on February 4 in Mount Maunganui. A significant revelation is the inclusion of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) signee Rachin Ravindra, who is poised to assume a new role in the series.

Ravindra, if named in the Playing XI, will be playing his first Test at home since 2022. Notably, the talented all-rounder is slated to take on the responsibility of batting in the middle-order, a shift from his usual lower-middle-order position, replacing Henry Nicholls. The young player was secured by CSK in the IPL 2024 mini-auction for a notable 1.8 Crore INR.

The squad also marks the return of Kane Williamson, who had been selectively part of the T20I series against Bangladesh but was sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Alongside him, players with fitness concerns, Tom Blundell and pacer Kyle Jamieson, have been included in the 13-member squad. Tim Southee will lead the team, providing valuable experience.

Gary Stead, the head coach, expressed optimism regarding Williamson’s fitness, hoping for his full participation in the Test series. “It’s an honour to be involved in any Test match, and I know the players are looking forward to the start of a big Test summer,” said Stead. “The Proteas are a highly competitive team across formats, and, having never won a Test series against them home or away, we expect two stern challenges.”

The Proteas are expected to present a new-look squad, featuring seven uncapped players, setting the stage for an intriguing series. The first Test is scheduled to kick off on February 4, and cricket enthusiasts anticipate an exciting clash between the two competitive sides.

New Zealand Squad:

• Tim Southee
• Tom Blundell
• Devon Conway
• Matt Henry
• Kyle Jamieson
• Tom Latham
• Daryl Mitchell
• Will O’Rourke (second Test only)
• Glenn Phillips
• Rachin Ravindra
• Mitch Santner
• Neil Wagner
• Kane Williamson
• Will Young