The Black Caps have bolstered their spinning stocks for the test in Sydney, calling in off-spinner Somerville to replace Trent Boult. Black Caps head coach Gary Stead said the inclusion of Somerville was a nod to the expected conditions in Sydney. The 35-year-old beat out Ajaz Patel for the call-up, with Patel having been already given a chance outside of the subcontinent. Although he was asked to bowl in unfavourable conditions in New Zealand, and was economical, Patel bowled 43 wicketless overs. Somerville will play for Auckland in their Twenty20 clash with Wellington this afternoon, before linking up with the team in Sydney tomorrow.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 29, 2019 19:30 UTC