Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Henry Nicholls New Zealand Test return has been confirmed for the second match against England at The Oval, with the 34-year-old set to replace Kane Williamson at No.3.
The change follows Williamson’s sudden international retirement on Friday, shortly after New Zealand’s 115-run defeat to England in the series opener at Lord’s.
The New Zealand selection shift comes after England Second Test Squad Overhauled as Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker Earn Debuts, with both teams making major changes before The Oval Test. Fans can follow official updates through the International Cricket Council website.
Nicholls Gets No.3 Role
New Zealand captain Tom Latham confirmed Nicholls had been picked ahead of Will Young, who has rejoined the squad as cover.
Nicholls last played Test cricket against Zimbabwe 11 months ago and now returns in a role he has filled for Canterbury.
"It's a really exciting opportunity for him to come back into the side in a role, at three, that he's been doing for Canterbury at home.
"I think the good thing with Henry is he's always been able to adapt to situations. He's pretty much batted from the top to the middle throughout his international career, and he'll do whatever's required for the team."
Latham Reflects on Williamson Exit
Latham said New Zealand respected Williamson’s decision to step away.
"For him to acknowledge that he's not quite right, or that he can't necessarily give 100 per cent, is testament to the player that he is, but also the person that he is as well.
"We're obviously gutted not to have him, but we also acknowledge what he's done for this group over a long period of time."
Devon Conway is available after returning home between Tests for the birth of his second child.
Matt Henry also trained on Tuesday as he tries to prove his fitness after back spasms limited his role at Lord’s.
England will again be captained by Joe Root, who has returned to the role after Ben Stokes was dropped following a team curfew breach.