Image Source: AFP
[Saba Sports News] im Southee, the captain of New Zealand’s Test team, remains open to the idea of Neil Wagner making an unexpected return to the Test lineup for the series’ second match against Australia. Wagner, who had recently stepped away from international cricket following indications of non-selection for the Australia series, is now back in consideration due to Will O’Rourke’s hamstring injury incurred during the first Test.
Despite O’Rourke’s attempt to bat after the injury, his bowling absence was felt, and Wagner’s brief appearance as a substitute fielder was warmly received by fans.
Southee has yet to make a definitive decision, pending O’Rourke’s recovery status and further team discussions. While he explicitly ruled out Trent Boult, who has been absent from Test cricket focusing on T20s, Southee was more reserved in his assessment of Scott Kuggeleijn, acknowledging his contributions despite the challenging conditions.
“He bowled well at times,” Southee said. “It was tough out there with that wind, the job he did, picked up a couple of wickets in the first innings which were crucial. It’s obviously a very small sample size in the two matches he’s played and there’s a bit of time, a year between Test matches as well. It’s not easy to come in and make an impact straight away.”
He also reflected on the impact of Cameron Green’s commanding century in the first innings, suggesting a more aggressive approach might have been beneficial. The decision regarding Wagner’s potential inclusion seems to hinge on the upcoming evaluations and the team’s strategy for the Christchurch match.
“I think we probably could have tried to get Green out on that second morning,” he shared. “I think the way he played that that night before, we thought he was probably going to come out and play some shots. But we probably could look to get him out and on that second morning and make things slightly easier than what we did.”