Neil Wagner, left-arm fast bowler replaces Matt Henry in New Zealand’s squad for the two-Test series against Bangladesh. Henry injured his hamstring during a World Cup game against South Africa, ruling him out of the competition. Despite the expectation of returning for the Bangladesh Tests, further scans show that his injury has not sufficiently healed.
Selector Sam Wells expressed excitement at having Wagner’s skill and experience on the Bangladesh tour, highlighting his record and competitiveness. Despite missing two rounds of the Plunkett Shield due to a back injury, Wagner has returned to action for Northern Districts. The upcoming Test against Bangladesh will also mark New Zealand’s first in the current World Test Championship cycle from 2023-25, with Wagner finishing the previous cycle with 18 wickets.
Most of the New Zealand squad is currently recuperating in Dubai before heading to Sylhet next week. The opening Test against Bangladesh is set to begin on November 28. The updated squad includes Tim Southee, Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Kane Williamson, Will Young, and Neil Wagner.
