Trent Boult named in New Zealand squad for India Tests

New Zealand has been boosted by the return of its prolific Test paceman Trent Boult for the upcoming home Test series against India.

New Zealand paceman Trent Boult

Trent Boult has been recalled by New Zealand for the two-match Test series against India after the pace attack leader recovered from a broken right hand.

The 30-year-old left-armer missed the ODIs and Twenty20 matches after suffering his injury during the Boxing Day Test against Australia in Melbourne.

However, he features in a 13-man squad ahead of the opening Test, which begins at Wellington's Basin Reserve on Friday.

Boult, who has 256 wickets from 65 Tests, is included alongside fellow quicks Tim Southee, Neil Wagner and Kyle Jamieson, with Lockie Ferguson absent due to a calf injury and Ajaz Patel included as the spin option.

Coach Gary Stead said: "It's terrific to have Trent back with us and we're looking forward to the energy and experience he adds to the group alongside his obvious class with the ball in hand.

Work ethic

"Kyle will offer us a point of difference with the bounce he could extract on what is traditionally a good surface in Wellington.

"We're excited to welcome back Ajaz who has done a great job for us overseas and has a proven domestic record in New Zealand conditions."

Ross Taylor is due to win his 100th cap in the first Test, becoming the fourth New Zealand player to reach that mark, after Brendon McCullum, Daniel Vettori and Stephen Fleming.

Stead said: "To play 100 Tests for your country is an incredible achievement and a testament to his work ethic and complete professionalism."

New Zealand squad for Test series against India : Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling.