New Zealand announce squad for third West Indies Test; Ajaz Patel, Tom Blundell return

New Zealand have announced a revised 14-member squad for the third and final Test against the West Indies, scheduled to be played at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The Black Caps, who currently lead the three-match series 1-0 after a dominant nine-wicket win in the second Test, will be aiming to seal the series with a victory on home soil.

Blundell returns after injury layoff

Wicketkeeper-batter Tom Blundell has been recalled after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during the opening Test in Christchurch. The injury forced Blundell to miss the remainder of the first match as well as the second Test, where debutant Mitch Hay stepped in admirably, scoring a fluent 61 in Wellington.

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter welcomed Blundell’s return, highlighting his importance to the squad.
“Tom has recovered very well from his hamstring tear, and we’re grateful to have someone of his calibre back in the side. His experience is invaluable, especially with several players relatively new to Test cricket,” Walter said.

Hay has been released from the squad and will return to domestic duties with Canterbury, though Walter acknowledged his positive impact.
“Mitch did a great job for us on debut, and it’s pleasing to have that depth in our wicketkeeping stocks,” he added.

Ajaz Patel back to bolster spin attack

Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel also returns to the Test squad, marking his first inclusion since New Zealand’s home series against India last year. The Bay Oval surface, known for offering more assistance to spinners than most New Zealand venues, played a key role in Patel’s recall.
“Ajaz is someone we can trust to come in and do a job if required. Bay Oval has typically offered more turn, and his ability to turn the ball away from right-handers adds a valuable dimension to our attack,” Walter explained.

Patel is in line to make his first home Test appearance since 2020, adding experience and variation alongside New Zealand’s seam-heavy bowling unit.

Pace attack largely unchanged

New Zealand have largely retained the pace group that impressed in the second Test. Blair Tickner has been ruled out due to a shoulder injury, while Michael Rae, Jacob Duffy, and Zak Foulkes are expected to continue. Patel provides an additional spin option should conditions warrant a two-spinner strategy.

Series context

After a rain-affected draw in the opening Test, New Zealand seized control of the series with a commanding performance in the second match. With key players returning and momentum on their side, the hosts will look to wrap up the series, while the West Indies will be hoping to level it and take confidence into future tours.

New Zealand squad for third Test

Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Kristian Clarke, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Daryl Mitchell, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Will Young