New Zealand have officially named a 14-member squad for the first Test against West Indies, starting 2 December 2025 in Christchurch. The biggest highlight of the announcement is the return of veteran batter Kane Williamson, who will play a Test match after nearly a year. Team captain Tom Latham will lead the Black Caps as they begin their WTC 2025–27 cycle at home.
Kane Williamson last played a Test in December 2024 and had skipped the Zimbabwe series earlier this year to focus on red-ball preparation. Head coach Rob Walter said that Williamson’s presence strengthens both the batting lineup and leadership core of the side. The senior batter is expected to play a warm-up Plunket Shield match before the Test begins.
Fast bowler Blair Tickner has received a national call-up after nearly two years. His last Test appearance came in 2023, and strong domestic performances have earned him a place in the squad again. Along with Tickner, young pacers Jacob Duffy and Jake Fox – both of whom impressed on the Zimbabwe tour – have also been included. Jake Fox notably picked 9 wickets for 75 runs on debut.
Our 14-man squad to kick off a new World Test Championship Cycle against the West Indies! FULL STORY – https://t.co/ccuooUrPoP 📖
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) November 23, 2025
The first Tegel Test starts December 2 in Christchurch.#NZvWIN pic.twitter.com/VKNqwxrfUS
Jamieson & Phillips Ruled Out Due to Fitness
The squad sees two major omissions:
- Kyle Jamieson, who is still recovering from a back injury
- Glenn Phillips, who has not yet regained full match fitness after a groin injury
New Zealand management wants both players to return through domestic red-ball cricket before joining the national side again.
All-rounder Daryl Mitchell has fully recovered from his groin issue and is back in the Test setup. However, pacers Matt Fisher, Will O’Rourke, and Ben Sears were not considered due to injuries.
West Indies Tour of New Zealand – Test Series Schedule
- 2–6 December 2025: 1st Test, Christchurch
- 10–14 December 2025: 2nd Test, Wellington
- 18–22 December 2025: 3rd Test, Mount Maunganui
The Black Caps recently dominated the West Indies in both T20Is (3–1) and ODIs (3–0) and will look to continue their winning run in the Test series.
New Zealand Squad for 1st Test vs West Indies
Tom Latham (Captain), Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Blair Tickner, Jacob Duffy, Jake Fox
