BLACKCAPS batting allrounder Michael Bracewell will replace the injured Glenn Phillips for the first Test against Zimbabwe.
Bracewell was not considered in the original squad due to his commitments with The Hundred overlapping with the two-Test series in Bulawayo.
BLACKCAPS head coach Rob Walter said Bracewell is a strong replacement for Phillips.
“Glenn’s injury provided a gap in the Test squad and Michael is the closest like-for-like replacement,” said Walter.
“Michael’s experience and skillset will be a great asset and allows us to keep the same balance of the team.
"Given he's here with the T20 squad and his availability aligned for the first Test, we’re using the opportunity to include him in the squad.
"We’ll get through the first Test and then we’ll make a decision whether we’ll replace him for the second Test."
Bracewell will depart Zimbabwe after the conclusion of the first Test and join the Southern Brave ahead of their first game.
Zimbabwe v BLACKCAPS Test Schedule
1st Test - July 30 - August 3 - Bulawayo - 8pm NZT (10am local)
2nd Test - August 7 - August 11 - Bulawayo - 8pm NZT (10am local)
Matches will be streamed LIVE and free in New Zealand on ThreeNow.
