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On Monday, New Zealand Cricket announced their 15-man squad for the upcoming Test matches in the Indian sub-continent.

The series begins with a one-off Test against Afghanistan in Noida, India, followed by two crucial ICC World Test Championship matches against Sri Lanka in September. Tim Southee has been named captain, while Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra are included in the squad.

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What is New Zealand's squad for Afghanistan and Sri Lanka series?

New Zealand's squad: Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (vc), Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Kane Williamson, Will Young

Spin-heavy squad for sub-continent conditions

Understanding the spin-friendly pitches in the sub-continent, New Zealand has included five spinners in the squad. The off-spinning all-rounder Michael Bracewell returns to the team, alongside Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips, who offer additional spin options.

Ajaz Patel is the squad's only specialist spinner. The team's selection indicates a focus on spin, which may limit the role of their fast bowlers.

These matches are important for New Zealand's chances of reaching the World Test Championship final. They are currently third on the points table, behind India and Australia.

More: What is the Duleep Trophy? History, format, zones and teams for India's red ball first-class tournament

After the Sri Lanka series, New Zealand will face India in a three-match series in October and November, before heading back home for a series against England at the end of the year.

What is the Test schedule for New Zealand's matches against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka?

Only Test vs Afghanistan: Noida, September 9-13
First Test vs Sri Lanka: Galle, September 18-22
Second Test vs Sri Lanka: Galle, September 26-30

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Divy Dubey Photo

Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition.