Injuries Shake Up New Zealand Squad Ahead of Second WI Test
So, the build-up to the second Test between West Indies and New Zealand has taken quite a dramatic turn. New Zealand have been hit by a wave of injuries, and it’s reshaping their entire lineup just days before the Wellington Test gets underway. One of the biggest setbacks has been the absence of wicketkeeper-batter Tom Blundell. He suffered a hamstring tear while batting during the first Test in Christchurch, and as a result, he has been ruled out of the second match. Because of that, 25-year-old Mitchell Hay is now set to make his Test debut at the Basin Reserve.
This moment is huge for Hay. Even though he’s already represented New Zealand in T20Is and ODIs, stepping into the Test arena brings a different kind of pressure and excitement. His First-Class numbers for Canterbury have been impressive—nearly 1900 runs at an average touching 50, with a top score of 146—so this opportunity has been a long time coming.
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But Blundell isn't the only one unavailable. New Zealand are dealing with a string of injuries: Matt Henry is out with a calf issue, Nathan Smith has a side strain, and Mitchell Santner is nursing a groin injury. All three have been ruled out for the remainder of the series, which forced the selectors to dig deep into the domestic circuit for reinforcements. Coming into the squad are all-rounder Kristian Clarke and fast bowler Michael Rae. Both have been consistent performers in First-Class cricket—Clarke with 79 wickets in 28 matches and Rae with over 200 wickets across his career.
Another notable return is that of Glenn Phillips. After battling a groin problem, he’s back in the Test squad and in line for his first appearance since last year. He has already been easing back into red-ball cricket with strong all-round performances in the domestic circuit, which is encouraging for New Zealand as they try to balance experience with new talent.
Head coach Rob Walter has spoken highly of the newcomers, calling Clarke and Rae “players of interest” and highlighting their red-ball skills. There’s a clear sense that this second Test will be used not only to push for victory but also to test New Zealand’s depth under pressure.
Meanwhile, the West Indies enter Wellington with confidence after pulling off an extraordinary escape in Christchurch, batting out the entire final day to secure a draw—thanks largely to Justin Greaves’ double-century. They’ll certainly feel that the momentum is tilting their way.
With the second Test starting at the iconic Basin Reserve, the stage is set: New Zealand’s patched-up but promising lineup against a spirited West Indies side sensing opportunity. It’s shaping up to be an intriguing contest, and all eyes will be on the debutants and returning stars to see how they handle the spotlight.
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