Bracewell set for test return

Cricket: Bracewell set for test return

Fast bowler Doug Bracewell will be added to the Black Caps squad for the third ANZ test starting in Auckland on Friday if he gets through tomorrow's Ford Trophy match unscathed.

The 22-year-old missed the first two tests after he cut his right foot on some glass while cleaning up after a party at his Napier home on the eve of the opening test.

His recovery will be tested during the Central Stags clash with the Canterbury Wizards in Christchurch tomorrow before he is confirmed in the squad for the deciding test at Eden Park.

Bracewell and the two squad members who haven't played in the test series so far - Ian Butler and Tom Latham - will all feature in Ford Trophy cricket tomorrow before they join the squad in Auckland.

Black Caps head coach Mike Hesson says it's pleasing to have Bracewell available for selection after the unfortunate injury that saw him miss the first two tests.

"Doug's availability creates a real battle for spots for this deciding ANZ test against England.

It also helps to manage the workload for a group of bowlers who have carried a heavy load during the first two tests."

"We'll be keenly watching how he performs in the Ford Trophy tomorrow and how his foot comes through the game."

Black Caps squad for third test:
Brendon McCullum (c), Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, (pending getting through Ford Trophy match tomorrow), Dean Brownlie, Ian Butler, Peter Fulton, Tom Latham, Bruce Martin, Hamish Rutherford, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson.