Ross Taylor will make a timely return to the BLACKCAPS side for the first Test against South Africa tomorrow.
The return of the captain will no doubt boost New Zealand’s confidence as they look to carry on their superb test form this summer.
Taylor returns after six weeks off due to a calf injury suffered in the Zimbabwe Test series. Having watched his side take on the Proteas in the limited overs formats, he’s now eager to get amongst the action himself.
“My confidence is getting there. Yesterday was probably the best day I’ve had so far. I ran around a little bit for CD and now just can’t wait to get out there,” an enthusiastic Taylor declared.
“I think the team’s moral is pretty good. After the win in Hobart we’ve captured the imagination of the country and we want to try build on that.”
It’s exactly what the BLACKCAPS need to do after a disappointing Twenty20 and ODI series.
However the test team will be quite a different outfit to the side that was involved in the limited overs matches. Daniel Vettori, Chris Martin and Taylor all come back into the squad, bringing with them 207 Tests of experience.
Wicketkeeper Kruger van Wyk has also been confirmed a spot in the team, with BJ Watling ruled out due to a niggling hip injury
Taylor’s believe that van Wyk deserves his call-up and is confident his Central Stags team-mate will deliver against the tenacious South African bowling attack.
“It’s nice for Kruger. I think he’s got the highest average in First-Class cricket this season. To be playing against his birth country will be extra special for him.
“We know South Africa are a top side. We just need to worry about ourselves, get out there and get into the fight.”
Just the attitude that New Zealand’s going to need.
