Jamieson returns for England test matches
"If he can regain fitness and recapture form, Jamieson with pink ball in hand will offer the home side's attack an element of potency.
The Black Caps will boast one of their biggest weapons when they face their biggest challenge of the summer.
Paceman Kyle Jamieson has been named in a New Zealand squad for the first time since last June, selected to make his return from injury in this month's blockbuster two-test series against England.
With Brendon Mccullum's tourists winning nine of 10 tests since the Kiwi was appointed coach, Jamieson's inclusion could not have come at a better time.
The Black Caps are without a win in six tests and, as coach Gary Stead intimated last month, will be without the uncontracted Trent Boult.
The veteran's absence could see his erstwhile teammates battling to avoid becoming the latest victims of England's newfound aggression when the series begins on February 16 with a day-night test at Bay Oval.
But if he can regain fitness and recapture form, Jamieson with pink ball in hand will offer the home side's attack an element of potency.
Jamieson has compiled a formidable
record in tests since making his debut three years ago, snaring 72 scalps in 16 matches at an average of 19.45. His extra pace and bounce has proven particularly threatening in greater opportunities at home, taking 50 wickets at 17.6, and should be especially effective in bowler-friendly conditions under lights.
The 2.03m quick has picked up four wickets in three short-form matches for Auckland, having spent the previous months undergoing a specialised recovery programme, and Stead attributed Jamieson's recall to his dedication.
‘‘Since he was forced from the field in Nottingham, he's been very clear that he wants to get his body right to return.’’
The 28-year-old will have an opportunity to complete that process, set to be part of the New Zealand XI squad to face England in a warm-up match next week at Seddon Park, Hamilton.
Jamieson is the only addition to the group that drew a two-test series in Pakistan this summer, with Ajaz Patel and Glenn Phillips omitted.
Legspinner Ish Sodhi will be hoping to play his first home test since 2018, having finished the Pakistan series as top wicket-taker.
But if New Zealand opt to include a tweaker, Michael Bracewell's superior batting will likely see the offspinner secure a spot, or opener Will Young may play as an extra batsman.