Cricket New Zealand is taking a cautious approach with the asset Jamieson

Author: Ian Ransom

(Reuters) New Zealand pacer Kyle Jamieson is likely to play only in the opening light-ball Test against England in the two-Test series as staff are cautious about recovering quickly.

The towering 28-year-old had been named in his first Test squad since injuring his back during the tour of England last year, cutting short a sensational start in the longest format.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said the selectors did not want to take Jamieson’s risk position by allowing him to play in both Tests while he returned to action.

We still have important matches coming up during the rest of the year, Stead told reporters on Friday.

We chose a team of 14, so we believe we will have cover for all the necessary options.

He’s obviously an important asset for us and without a doubt what he’s done early in his career has been pretty amazing.

Jamieson, who has claimed 72 wickets in 16 Tests at an average of 19.45, joins a pace unit that includes captain Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Neil Wagner and quick Blair Tickner.

The series begins with a day-night Test at Bay Oval in Tauranga on February 16 and the second match at Wellingtons Basin Reserve on February 24.

Jamieson said he went through a range of emotions while recovering from his back problems, but he felt energized and ready to take on the new ball if asked.

If and when the time comes to put the test bag back on, that’s great, he told reporters.

A rejuvenated England, under the supervision of head coach and former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum, was whitewashed 3-0 in the New Zealand home series last year.

2021 World Cup winners New Zealand hit a wall last year and are unbeaten in their last five Test series.

However, England have been on fire, winning three of their last four with their attacking Bazball game.

Stead said it was exciting to face England on relatively bouncy home pitches, but gave short shrift to the idea New Zealand needed to up their aggression to match a Ben Stokes-led side.

There is no point in talking to our players about playing aggressive cricket unless that is their natural style, he said.

We still play our way of aggression, but it will be our way.

(Reporting by Ian Ransom in Melbourne; Editing by Peter Rutherford)