Injury-hit NZ face selection puzzle for third Test

WELLINGTON: New Zealand captain Kane Williamson was still mulling over the make-up of his side ahead of Saturday’s third Test against South Africa with the Seddon Park wicket proving difficult to pin down.

Pace bowling duo Trent Boult and Tim Southee have been ruled out of the match with the uncapped Scott Kuggeleijn brought into the 13 to provide cover, with Matt Henry and Neil Wagner expected to start.

Williamson also suggested the hosts could consider picking two spinners in Mitchell Santner and Jeetan Patel, with just one all-rounder from Jimmy Neesham and Colin de Grandhomme.

“It’s an interesting process, with so many injuries, to try and nut down the balance we want to go with,” Williamson told reporters in Hamilton on Friday.

“It (the wicket) never has a huge amount of pace but offers a little bit for the seamers, and I think that side of the block can be a little slower than the other side.

“So there might be a little spin.” Williamson was unsure as to whether uncapped all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn would make the side, but said he had been impressed by his performances in first-class cricket.

Kuggeleijn has captured 166 first class wickets in 51 games and averages almost 31 with the bat.