Ajaz Patel and Tom Blundell Back in New Zealand Squad for Final Test Against West Indies

Ajaz Patel and Tom Blundell are set to rejoin the New Zealand squad for the final Test match against the West Indies. The match is scheduled to begin on December 18 at Bay Oval in Mt Maunganui.

Wicketkeeper Tom Blundell, New Zealand's preferred choice, returns after recovering from a hamstring tear sustained during the first Test, which sidelined him for the second. Mitch Hay, who debuted in Blundell's absence, will return to Canterbury for domestic cricket duties.

Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel, named player of the match in his last Test appearance in November 2024, could play his first home Test since February 2020.

Head Coach Rob Walter highlighted Patel's potential impact. "Ajaz is someone we can trust to come in and do a job if required," Walter said. "Bay Oval typically offers more turn than other New Zealand pitches, and the fact he spins the ball away from right-handers is very appealing. Adding another spinner to the attack provides greater variance, complementing our seamers who have performed well this series."

Walter also commented on Blundell's return: "Tom has recovered well from his hamstring tear, and we're grateful to have him back. His experience is invaluable, especially with several newer players in the squad. He is a leader in the group, and we're very pleased to see him back."

The remainder of the squad remains the same as the second Test, which New Zealand won to take a 1-0 series lead after a draw in the first Test.