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Monday, January 23, 2012

Cricket: Shock inclusion in Black Caps test squad


Otago all-rounder Sam Wells has been added to the Black Caps test squad ahead of the one-off test against Zimbabwe starting in Napier on Thursday.

The left-handed batsman impressed for the New Zealand XI in the three day match against Zimbabwe scoring 65 in the first innings, combining with BJ Watling for a 125-run sixth wicket partnership on the opening day.

The 27-year-old debuted for Otago in the 2007-08 season and has scored two first class centuries with a high score of 115 not out.

He has scored 228 runs in this season's Plunket Shield competition, including three half centuries, averaging 38. With the ball Wells has taken just two wickets at an average of 78.5.

Black Caps coach John Wright said: "Sam is a talented all-rounder and we are confident if the opportunity arises he will perform well at international level for New Zealand.

"He has impressed during the three-day match in Gisborne with the bat and his skills with the ball will give good balance to the side."

Black Caps Test squad:
Ross Taylor (c), Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Dean Brownlie, Martin Guptill, Chris Martin, Brendon McCullum, Tim Southee, Daniel Vettori, Kruger van Wyk, BJ Watling, Sam Wells, Kane Williamson

- HERALD ONLINE