New Zealand Names Test Squad for Zimbabwe Without Williamson, Fisher Earns First Call-Up

New Zealand has named a 15-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Zimbabwe starting July 30, with Kane Williamson making himself unavailable to manage his playing commitments. The squad includes fast bowler Matt Fisher, who has earned his maiden Test call-up and is regarded as one of the fastest bowlers in the country, with 51 wickets in 14 First-class matches. Head coach Rob Walter expressed excitement about Fisher's inclusion, highlighting his pace and potential as an 'X-factor' in the pace attack, especially given the absence of other key bowlers like Kyle Jamieson and Ben Sears due to personal reasons and injury. Ajaz Patel returns to the Test squad for the first time since New Zealand's historic series win against India, while Henry Nicholls is also back after a hiatus. The two Tests are not part of the ICC World Test Championship, which influenced the availability decisions of players like Williamson and Michael Bracewell. The squad aims to build depth in the pace department as New Zealand prepares for this series under captain Tom Latham.