Wells swells New Zealand squad

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Otago all-rounder Sam Wells could make his Test debut in Napier this week after receiving a late call-up to New Zealand's squad

New Zealand have added all-rounder Sam Wells to their squad for the one-off Test against Zimbabwe, starting on Thursday.

Wells, a left-hand batsman and right-arm medium pace bowler, was not among the 12 names initially selected for the match in Napier, but has now been called up after scoring 65 in the recent match between a New Zealand XI and the touring Zimbabweans.

The 27-year-old was Otago’s leading run-scorer in this season’s Plunket Shield and averages 38.10 with the bat in first-class cricket. He has also claimed 33 wickets at 34, although only two of those were taken this term.

Explaining the decision to select Wells, coach John Wright said: “Sam is a talented all-rounder and we are confident, if the opportunity arises, he will perform well at international level for New Zealand.

“He impressed during the three-day match in Gisborne with the bat, and his skills with the ball will give good balance to the side.”