Australia has recalled seam bowler Michael Neser to their Test squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand. Neser, who has represented Australia in two Tests and four ODIs, last played a Test match in December 2022. His inclusion in the squad comes in light of the seamer-friendly conditions expected in New Zealand.
Neser’s chances were further boosted by injuries to Lance Morris during the ODI series against West Indies and Jhye Richardson, who was sidelined for six weeks with a side strain. Matt Renshaw, who replaced the recently retired David Warner in the squad, retains his spot as the backup batter.
Chair of the selection panel, George Bailey, expressed his satisfaction with Neser’s consistent performances, stating, “It’s great to see Michael Neser get another opportunity in the squad following his ever-consistent performances over a long period of time and the conditions we expect.”
Bailey also highlighted the importance of the Test series in New Zealand in the context of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), emphasizing the need to secure valuable WTC points. He expects the tour to be a tough challenge against a strong New Zealand side known for their consistency at home.
The two-match Test series, scheduled to begin on February 29, marks Australia’s first Test tour of New Zealand since 2016. The squad for the tour includes Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith (vice-captain), and Mitchell Starc.
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