The Christchurch Test against West Indies marks the start of New Zealand’s World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle and Kane Williamson’s return to Test cricket. Williamson last played a Test in December 2024 and has since scaled back international commitments, retired from T20Is, and watched New Zealand plan a T20 league for 2027.
After the three-match series, fans may have to wait until late 2026 to see Williamson play at home again. New Zealand’s recent home Test record is mixed, with just two wins in their last seven series. Injuries are also a concern, but they start as favourites against a West Indies side struggling with fitness and depth.
Alzarri and Shamar Joseph are injured, Kemar Roach returns after a long break, and Ojay Shields has been called up. Questions remain over West Indies’ batting order, wicketkeeping, and bowling balance. The visitors have not won a Test in New Zealand since 1995.
Tom Latham and Jayden Seales are in the spotlight. Latham, who led New Zealand to a historic 3-0 sweep of India last year, is returning from injury with some recent domestic form. Seales showed promise in India and could trouble Williamson and the Kiwi top order.
New Zealand face a selection decision between Devon Conway and Will Young, and between Jacob Duffy and Blair Tickner in the bowling line-up. Daryl Mitchell has recovered from a groin injury.
Probable line-ups:
New Zealand: Latham (c), Conway/Young, Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Mitchell Santner/Michael Bracewell, Zak Foulkes, Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy/Blair Tickner.
West Indies: Campbell, Chanderpaul, Athanaze/Brandon King, Hope, Hodge, Roston Chase (c), Tevin Imlach (wk), Greaves, Roach, Seales, Layne/Phillip/Shields.
Hagley Oval offers swing-friendly conditions, though grass often wears off after the first session. Showers are possible on the second day. Matt Henry has 36 wickets at the ground in seven games, while Chanderpaul has faced over 1,500 balls in Tests since 2022.
Rob Walter said, “It’s the purest form of the game, and this is my first home Test series. We are excited.” Roston Chase added, “Fast bowlers enjoy these conditions with bounce and seam movement. We are ready to bowl.”