New Zealand have announced a pace-dominated squad for their upcoming tour of Ireland and England as they aim to strengthen their position in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 standings.
Led by Tom Latham, the squad will first face Ireland in a one-off Test before playing a three-match Test series against England. New Zealand currently sit second in the WTC table with a points percentage of 77.78.
The biggest boost for the Black Caps comes with the return of fast bowlers Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke. Jamieson is set for his first Test appearance since February 2024, while O’Rourke returns after last featuring in the Zimbabwe Test in August 2025.
The touring party also includes a strong seam attack featuring Matt Henry, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner and Zak Foulkes, while Michael Rae and Kristian Clarke are selected only for the Ireland Test.
Star batter Kane Williamson headlines a settled batting unit alongside Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls. Uncapped batting all-rounder Dean Foxcroft has also earned a call-up.
Accordingly, Jacob Duffy misses the tour due to the impending birth of his first child, while Michael Bracewell has opted to focus on white-ball cricket.
Head coach Rob Walter described the England challenge as a major opportunity in New Zealand’s WTC campaign, which will also include upcoming Test series against India, Australia, Sri Lanka and Pakistan later in the cycle.
Tour Schedule:
- May 27-30, Only Test, v Ireland, Stormont, Belfast
- June 4-8, First Test, v England, Lord’s, London
- June 17-21, Second Test, v England, The Oval, London
- June 25-29, Third Test, v England, Trent Bridge, Nottingham
Squad: Tom Latham (C), Tom Blundell (WK), Kristian Clarke (Ireland only), Devon Conway, Zak Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae (Ireland only), Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears (Ireland and 16th Travelling reserve for England), Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, Will Young (Ireland only).
