US EditionKane Williamson Opts Out of Black Caps’ Test Series Against Zimbabwe
ZIMBABWE, JUL 7 – New Zealand's squad for the two-Test tour of Zimbabwe includes debutant fast bowler Matt Fischer with key players unavailable for personal and professional reasons.
- New Zealand named a 15-member Test squad led by Tom Latham for a two-match series against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo starting July 30, 2025.
- Kane Williamson opted out due to other playing commitments, Kyle Jamieson withdrew to prepare for the arrival of his first child, and Michael Bracewell was unavailable because of his participation in The Hundred tournament.
- Matt Fisher earned his maiden Test call-up as a fast bowler replacing retired Tim Southee, while Ajaz Patel and Henry Nicholls returned to the squad after previous absences.
- Coach Rob Walter expressed excitement about Fisher, calling him an 'X-factor' and stated that missing senior players provides opportunities for proven performers like Patel and Nicholls.
- Williamson declined a central contract to manage international and franchise commitments, signaling ongoing involvement in short formats despite opting out of this Test series.
17 Articles
17 Articles
‘He’s still very committed to New Zealand cricket’: Coach Walter confident of Williamson’s return despite opting out of contract
Williamson will be leading the London Spirit in The Hundred in England instead of playing two Tests against Zimbabwe in late July and August, set to be played in Bulawayo.
Williamson, Bracewell skip Zim tour
Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell will skip the upcoming two-test tour of Zimbabwe with the blessing of New Zealand Cricket, while paceman Ben Sears has been ruled out by a side injury. Rob Walter, who replaced Gary Stead as coach last month, named his first test squad on Tuesday, awarding a call-up to uncapped young fast bowler Matt Fisher and recalling experienced hands Ajaz Patel and Henry Nicholls. "Kane and Michael were up front with Ne…
Williamson, Bracewell skip New Zealand's tour to Zimbabwe
Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell will skip the upcoming two-test tour of Zimbabwe with the blessing of New Zealand Cricket, while paceman Ben Sears has been ruled out by a side injury. © New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
Kane Williamson unavailable as New Zealand name squad for Zimbabwe Tests
New Zealand will play the two-Test series against Zimbabwe without Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell due to their overseas T20 commitments. This opens opportunities for newcomers like Matt Fisher while experienced players Ajaz Patel and Henry Nicholls return to strengthen the squad.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 36% of the sources lean Left, 36% of the sources lean Right
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
