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Key Takeaways
- 1📊 Ajaz's last Test: 10-wicket haul in Mumbai
- 2🏆 NZ leads series 1-0 after Wellington innings win
- 3💡 Bay Oval pitch favors spinners after five years
- 4🔮 Third Test starts Thursday in Mount Maunganui
"With help for the spinners expected at Bay Oval, Ajaz could play his first home Test in more than five years"
Ajaz Patel and Tom Blundell make stunning comebacks to the New Zealand squad for the third Test against West Indies at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. With spin-friendly conditions expected, Ajaz could feature in his first home Test in over five years, bringing his magical left-arm wizardry back to Kiwi shores.
Ajaz, fresh from his Player-of-the-Match heroics in Mumbai last year where he took all ten wickets, replaces injured Blair Tickner who dislocated his shoulder in Wellington. Tom Blundell, sidelined by a hamstring tear from the first Test, returns behind the stumps, pushing debutant Mitchell Hay—who impressed with 61 in the second Test win—back to domestic duties with Canterbury.
Spin Threat at Bay Oval
New Zealand lead the series 1-0 after a dominant innings victory in Wellington. Bay Oval's expected turn could see Ajaz bowl his first Test over at home since 2020, exciting fans craving a repeat of his dream spell. The Black Caps aim to seal the series in style, with Blundell's keeping adding steel to the side.
All eyes on Thursday's toss as West Indies fight to stay alive.
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