Ish Sodhi makes comeback in Test Cricket against Pakistan

New Zealand announced their Test squad against Pakistan for two tests. The leg spinner, Ish Sodhi makes a comeback in the long-term format after 4 Years. The T20 strike bowler didn't get a chance in the tests despite having fantastic figures in first class (279 Wickets in 88 Matches). Sodhi recently crossed the mark of 100 wickets in the T20 format. New Zealand will play their two tests against Pakistan under the captaincy of Tim Southee as Williamson stepped down as test captain.

“He's been playing international cricket for a decade and we are backing his skills and experience” New Zealand Coach on the comeback of Sodhi.

Along with Ish, NZ’s new white ball sensation Glenn Phillips is also included in the squad after his only test appearance which was in the year 2020. Blackcaps also backed the uncapped player Blair Tickner for this series. Blair was part of the squad in the home series against South Africa and the away tour of England.

Kiwi Team’s Swing Specialist Trent Boult is not part of this series as he is not part of New Zealand’s Central Contract. It is the first time the New Zealand team is on the Pakistan tour since 2003.

The Test series will start on boxing day which is on 26th December, and then will play the second test on the 3rd of January 2023. After this, the three ODIs will be held on the 10th, 12th, and 14th of January.

Right now, both New Zealand and Pakistan are currently out of the race for the Test Championship. On the other side, it is interesting to see how Pakistan deals with the Kiwi Challenge after a disappointing series at home against England.

New Zealand Test Squad for the series:

Tim Southee (C), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Ajaz Patel, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Ish Sodhi, Blair Tickner, Devon Conway, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young