Christchurch, Dec 7: New Zealand have handed uncapped pacer Michael Rae his first Test call-up ahead of the second match of the three-Test series against the West Indies, following injuries to frontline bowlers Matt Henry and Nathan Smith.
Rae, 30, has been drafted into the squad after Henry picked up a calf strain and Smith sustained a side injury during the opening Test in Christchurch. Both bowlers are now doubtful for the Wellington Test, which begins on December 10.The Canterbury quick has been in solid domestic form, returning figures of 3/65 in the second round of the Plunket Shield against Central Districts. Rae has also gained experience overseas, featuring for Warwickshire in county cricket where he claimed 14 wickets at an average of 30.28.Across his First-Class career, the right-arm seamer has taken 205 wickets in 69 matches, including eight four-wicket hauls. (Agencies)
