 Shane Bond has taken 43 wickets in his Test career |
New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond is almost certain to play in the first Test against Zimbabwe after being named in the Black Cap squad. Back injuries have kept Bond, 30, out of Test cricket since May 2003.
Bond said his selection was a "reward for all the hard work" in New Zealand's preparation for the tour, which included practice matches in Namibia.
"I've been happy with my performances so far. I can't wait to put the black cap on and get amongst it," he said.
Bond has played only 10 Tests, taking 43 wickets, since making his debut against Australia in 2001.
All-rounder Jacob Oram is also on the way back from injury, but he did not win selection.
Lou Vincent, who batted at number four and scored 224 in his last Test innings against Sri Lanka in Wellington in April, will open the innings with James Marshall.
Left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori, another man back from injury, displaces off-spinner Paul Wiseman.
New Zealand squad: Lou Vincent, James Marshall, Hamish Marshall, Stephen Fleming (Capt), Nathan Astle, Scott Styris, Brendon McCullum (Wkt), Daniel Vettori, James Franklin, Shane Bond, Chris Martin, Kyle Mills.
MMIX
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