NZ vs WI, 3rd Test: Ajaz Patel, Blundell return to Kiwis squad

New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel is in line to play his first Test in over a year after he was named in a 14-man squad for the third Test against West Indies, while wicketkeeper Tom Blundell returned from a hamstring tear.

New Zealand leads the three-Test series 1-0 after winning the second Test by nine wickets and coach Rob Walter believes 37-year-old Patel can further strengthen the hosts at Bay Oval, where the third Test will be played from Thursday.

“Bay Oval, as we know, has typically taken more turn than other surfaces around New Zealand, and the fact he turns the ball away from the right-hander is very appealing,” Walter said in a statement shared by New Zealand Cricket.

Patel has played 21 Tests since his international debut in 2018, taking 85 wickets.

Blundell, who missed the second Test due to injury, has recovered well, Walter added.

Published on Dec 14, 2025