Watling doubt for opening Test against West Indies

Auckland: New Zealand have announced a 12-man squad for the first home Test against West Indies. Kane Williamson will captain the side that will have one player added while the availability of wicketkeeper BJ Watling, who is currently nursing a hip injury, will be monitored and evaluated over the coming week.

New Zealand have gone with a pace quartet of Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner and Matt Henry and just a solitary spinner in Mitchell Santner.

Colin de Grandhomme features as the genuine all-rounder and the likes of Ross Taylor and Tom Latham also feature in the batting department.

Blackcaps Test squad:
Kane Williamson (Capt.), Jeet Raval, Tom Latham, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, BJ Watling (wk), Colin de Grandhomme, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Neil Wagner and Tom Blundell (as cover of Watling).

Speaking about the squad, selector Gavin Larsen said: “"side from a question mark over BJ, we have a fully fit squad who have all shown they have what it takes to perform at Test level. We want to hit the ground running for that first match at the Basin Reserve. It’s a special place to play cricket and we’re determined to start the summer on a positive note.”

West Indies' tour of New Zealand begins with a 3-day practice match against New Zealand 'A' on November 25. The two-Test series begins on December 1 at Wellington with the second one being played at Hamilton from December 9.

The two teams then take part in three ODIs and three T20Is with the tour concluding on January 3.