In latest cricket news New Zealand have today confirmed their 15-member squad to compete in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final against India on June 18-22, at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

Ajaz Patel has been picked as the specialist spinner, with Colin de Grandhomme the all-rounder and Will Young as the specialist batting cover. Tom Blundell has also been picked as the back-up wicket-keeper.

Five players – Doug Bracewell, Jacob Duffy, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra and Mitchell Santner will drop out from the original 20-player touring team for the England Test series.

Commenting on the squad selections, Gary Stead said. “There’s had to be some tough calls with Mitchell and Daryl victims of the fierce competition we currently have for places in the Test side.

“We’ve gone with Ajaz as our specialist spinner after an impressive outing at Edgbaston and we believe he could be a factor at the Ageas Bowl.

“Colin’s been an integral member of our Test set-up for many years and it was great to see him return at Lord’s after a long injury lay-off. He’s a proven performer at the top level and we back him to do a job with the bat or the ball if called upon.

“Kane and BJ have certainly benefited from their week of rest and rehabilitation and we expect them to be fit and available for the final.

“Playing in a World Cup Final is a really special occasion and I know the guys are looking forward to getting into their work here in Southampton.

“India are a world class outfit who possess match winners all through their line-up, so we’re under no illusion about how tough they will be to beat.”

New Zealand Test squad –

Kane Williamson (c) Tom Blundell,Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young