|| CF DESK ||

New Zealand announced a 13-member squad for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka beginning on March 9 in Christchurch. 

New Zealand picked the same team for the Sri Lanka tour as they named for England series. The Black Caps registered a thrilling victory in the second Test to level the series at 1-1.

“We felt that the 13 that we have here is the right 13 to go forward. I think when you have a win like that (in Wellington), whether you win or lose, your confidence will improve," said head coach Gary Stead.

Devon Conway and Matt Henry were doubtful for a groin string and back stiffness respectively but the duo has pulled through and will be available for the upcoming clash.

The side would still be without the services of Trent Boult and Kyle Jamieson who is slated to undergo back surgery that would rule him out for the next three to four months.

“I think we’ve had (character) in the team all the time I’ve been there. And probably before that as well. When you look back over the last 10 years or so we’ve been a team that have punched above our weight and I think yesterday was a great example of that,” Stead added.

NZC also announced a three-match T20I series against UAE. The three games will be played on August 17, 19 and 20, as the squad stops over in the UAE on its way to England for limited-over assignments.

New Zealand have previously played UAE in just one international, an ODI during the 1996 World Cup.

Squad:

Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Blair Tickner, Neil Wagner, Scott Kuggeleijn, Henry Nicholls, Kane Williamson, Will Young