Overview
- New Zealand confirmed Matt Henry (calf), Nathan Smith (side strain) and Mitchell Santner (groin) are out for the rest of the West Indies Test series.
- Wicketkeeper Tom Blundell has a hamstring injury, with Canterbury’s Mitchell Hay set for a Test debut at the Basin Reserve.
- Uncapped quicks Michael Rae and Kristian Clarke have been added to a 14-player squad, with the final XI to be named at the toss.
- Head coach Rob Walter endorsed the rookie call-ups as Kyle Jamieson remains unavailable for Wellington and Ben Sears continues to be managed under return-to-play protocols.
- The overhaul follows a draining draw in Christchurch, where West Indies finished 457 for 6 with Justin Greaves unbeaten on 202 to stretch New Zealand’s bowling resources.