Kane Williamson returns as New Zealand announce playing 11 for NZ vs ENG 2024 1st Test

New Zealand ace batter Kane Williamson returned to the playing XI for the Black Caps' first Test against England, which starts on November 28 at the Hagley Oval, Christchurch. New Zealand have made a total of three changes, including Williamson's return.

New Zealand are currently high on confidence after beating India away in a three-match series held in October and November. They white-washed the hosts 3-0, and also bowled them out for 46 in the series opener.

Kane Williamson, who was supposed to be a part of the touring party that came to Indian shores, had to return after he was ruled out owing to a groin injury. Williamson last featured against Sri Lanka in the Galle Test from September 26 to 29. The batter returned with scores of 7 & 46 as the Kiwis slumped to a loss of an innings and 154 runs.

Williamson returns to the playing 11 at the cost of Will Young, who was most recently awarded the Player of the Series against India. Alongside him, pacer Tim Southee returns with Nathan Smith being awarded a debut as well. Spinners Ish Sodhi and Ajaz Patel have been left out as well.

New Zealand's Playing XI for the first Test: Tom Latham (c), Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (wk), Glenn Phillips, Nathan Smith, Tim Southee, Matt Henry and William O'Rourke

---

England announce Playing 11 for NZ vs ENG 1st Test

England also announced their playing 11 for the game, with Jordan Cox returning home after suffering an injury. He was supposed to make his debut as the wicketkeeper of the side but in his absence, Ollie Pope will now don the gloves. Jacob Bethell will make his debut and bat at number three.

England Playing XI for the first Test against New Zealand: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ollie Pope (wk), Ben Stokes (c), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Shoaib Bashir.

​