WELLINGTON, New Zealand — The New Zealand cricket selectors have decided to exclude spinner Ajaz Patel from their squad for the upcoming test series against England, despite his remarkable performance against India earlier this month. In the third test, Patel claimed an impressive 11 wickets for 160 runs, contributing significantly to New Zealand’s historic clean sweep of the series. New Zealand becomes the first team to achieve such a feat against India in a three-match test series played on home soil.

The selectors announced a 14-member squad on Friday, and Patel’s absence has raised eyebrows given his recent success. Mitchell Santner is the sole spinning option named in the squad, boasting figures of 13 for 157 in the second test against India. However, it is noted that Santner will only participate in the second and third tests of the series.

Selector Sam Wells acknowledged the tough decision to leave out Patel, emphasizing that Santner’s recent form and all-round capabilities were pivotal in the selection process. Additionally, Glenn Phillips was included as another potential spin option.

Historically, Patel has faced challenges in securing a spot in the test lineup during home series, despite his strong performances. After a standout showing in a previous match where he took 10 wickets for 119 runs against India in 2021, he found himself omitted from the subsequent home series against Bangladesh.

In a noteworthy update for the team, Kane Williamson is set to return after missing the series against India due to a groin injury. Meanwhile, Tom Latham will continue to lead the squad as captain, and uncapped all-rounder Nathan Harris has been called up for the first time.

“Nathan is an exciting talent with a proven first-class record,” remarked Wells, underlining the potential impact Harris could have on the team.

The first test match will take place in Christchurch, commencing on November 28, followed by the second test in Wellington from December 6 to 10, and concluding with the third test in Hamilton starting December 14.

New Zealand squad: Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young.