Despite playing a leading hand in the helping New Zealand to their first away series win over Pakistan in nearly 50 years, off spinner Will Somerville has been dropped for the two test series against Sri Lanka.
The 34 year old Somerville made his test debut in the third and deciding test against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi last week and took seven wickets to help the Black Caps to 123 run test victory and a 2-1 series win.
Will Somerville has been left out of the Black Caps test squad for the two test series against Sri Lanka. Photo: Photosport
However Ajaz Patel, who also made his test debut in the Pakistan series, is only spinner who's been named in the squad for the two tests against Sri Lanka, the first of which is in Wellington starting on Saturday.
"Ajaz certainly grabbed his opportunity on the UAE tour and he's a proven performer in New Zealand conditions," said selector Gavin Larsen.
Patel has been the leading wicket in the New Zealand domestic four day competition for the past three seasons while Somerville who currently plays for Auckland has little first class experience in New Zealand conditions having played in Australia for several years.
"Will Somerville was an obvious stand-out on debut in the Abu Dhabi decider and it's great to know we've got quality spin bowlers who can create competition for places," said Larsen.
Uncapped batsman Will Young has also been added to the squad as batting cover after strong performances in domestic cricket and for the New Zealand 'A' side.
The Blacks Caps test squad:
Kane Williamson (c), Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Jeet Raval, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor
Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young