BLACKCAPS name Test squad for The National Bank Series against Pakistan

New Zealand Cricket today announced a 13-man Test squad for the upcoming National Bank Series against Pakistan beginning 7 January 2010.

Brent Arnel – Northern Knights
James Franklin – Wellington Firebirds
Martin Guptill – Auckland Aces
Chris Martin – Auckland Aces
Brendon McCullum – Otago Volts
Andy McKay – Wellington Firebirds
Tim McIntosh – Auckland Aces
Jesse Ryder – Wellington Firebirds
Tim Southee – Northern Knights
Ross Taylor – Central Stags
Daniel Vettori – Northern Knights
Kane Williamson – Northern Knights
Reece Young – Canterbury Wizards

Selector Mark Greatbatch said: “We have kept faith with the majority of the squad who performed well in the Test matches against India and are wanting to build on the positive steps the team took in that series.

“One new face is wicketkeeper Reece Young who gets a chance after performing well over a number of seasons at domestic and NZA level. It’s disappointing for Gareth Hopkins who misses out on selection.

“Jeetan Patel and BJ Watling are the other players who were part of the larger squad in India not to make this group.

“We believe it’s a well balanced squad and we look forward to a competitive Test series against a very good Pakistan side.”