Tom Blundell to replace Jeet Raval for New Zealand in Boxing Day Test

Since reaching a maiden Test hundred against Bangladesh in February, Raval's last nine Test innings have brought just 66 runs

Backup batsman Tom Blundell will open the batting for New Zealand in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.

The 29-year-old, who is also the squad’s reserve wicketkeeper, replaces Jeet Raval, who has been jettisoned after a torrid run of recent form.

Since reaching a maiden Test hundred against Bangladesh in February, the left-hander has managed scores of 3, 33, 4, 0, 19, 5, 0, 1 and 1, with his last two innings coming in the Blackcaps’ 296-run defeat at Perth in the first Test against Australia.

Blundell, meanwhile, opened the batting for New Zealand in a warmup game ahead of the second Test against a Victoria state XI. He made an unbeaten half century before retiring.

^{Tom Blundell made a century on his Test debut}

The tourists’ preparations have been hampered by the extreme heat forecast around Australia. The first day of their practice game was cancelled when it became clear that temperatures were expected to hit 45 degrees in Melbourne.

“I feel like I can do a good job wherever,” Blundell said ahead of his third Test. His three innings to date have come while batting at No.8. On those occasions – he made a century on debut against West Indies, he has been playing as a direct injury replacement for BJ Watling with the gloves.

“This game I’ve been given the opportunity to open, so I’m really looking forward to Boxing Day.

“I’ll probably try to still bat the same. It’s just the first 30 balls I’ll just have to be a bit more patient outside the off-stump, and if I can last those 30 balls, then hopefully I can bat a bit more positively.”

Trent Boult is expected to return for Kane Williamson’s men, having missed the first instalment at Optus Stadium – and New Zealand’s second Test against England – with a rib injury.

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