Michael Neser returns after one year as Australia announce squad for New Zealand Tests

Australia have announced their squad for the forthcoming Test series against New Zealand. Right-arm pacer Michael Neser has been added to the squad for the AUS vs NZ Test series. Interestingly, Michael Neser has made a comeback to the Test team after one year.

The 33-year-old pacer Michael Neser last played in the Test series against West Indies in December 2022. He played one game out of two encounters and scalped 5 wickets in the match. Later, he was snubbed from the side for the entire 2023.

Neser was not part of the squad in the recent Test series against West Indies. Scott Boland is also part of the AUS vs NZ Test series. However, it is to be noted that the duo will only get a chance if the pace trio of Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins miss any game.

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Pat Cummins to lead Australia against New Zealand in Tests

After missing the recent AUS vs WI ODI series, Pat Cummins will be back to lead Australia in the Test series against New Zealand. Steve Smith, who was promoted as opener after David Warner’s retirement, is also part of the series.

He is expected to retain the opening slot in the Australia vs New Zealand Test series too. Except for the addition of Michael Neser, Australia has retained all other members who were part of the previous Test series against West Indies. Below is Australia’s full squad for the New Zealand Tests.

Australia Test squad: Pat Cummins (Captain), Steve Smith, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Matthew Renshaw, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Michael Neser.

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Michael Neser featured in 2 Tests in the past

Michael Neser has only featured in 2 Tests so far after making his debut in December 2021 against England. He accounts for 7 wickets across 4 innings averaging 16.71. Neser also mustered 56 runs in 3 innings including a top knock of 35 runs.

The right-arm seamer has also featured in 4 ODIs for Australia, picking 3 wickets at 6.52 economy. Australia’s chief selector George Bailey said it was great to see Michael Neser get another opportunity in the Test team.

“It’s great to see Michael Neser get another opportunity in the squad following his ever-consistent performances over a long period of time and the conditions we expect,” Bailey said.

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Australia tour of New Zealand 2024 begins on February 21

The Australia tour of New Zealand 2024 will begin on February 21 with the three-match T20I series. Later, the AUS vs NZ Test series will commence on February 29 with the opening encounter in Wellington. The 2nd Test will start on March 8 in Christchurch. The Test series will witness only two games.

Meanwhile, Australia is set to clash with West Indies in a three-match T20I series. Recently, they outplayed the Caribbean side 3-0 in an ODI series. On the other hand, New Zealand will face South Africa in 2nd Test before clashing with Australia at home.