Otago allrounder Sam Wells is a surprise addition to the New Zealand cricket squad for the Test against Zimbabwe.
The 27-year-old, who bowls right-arm medium pacers and bats left-handed, was named as the 13th member of the squad on Monday, ahead of the Test which starts in Napier on Thursday.
Coach John Wright said Wells was a talented all-rounder and had impressed with the bat in the current three-day match against the tourists.
"We are confident if the opportunity arises he will perform well at international level for New Zealand."
Wells scored 65 in the New Zealand XI's first innings against Zimbabwe in Gisborne and bowled nine overs for 26 runs but didn't take a wicket.
Since debuting for Otago in 2007 he has played 21 first class matches, batting at an average of 38.1 with a high score of 115 not out.
He has taken 33 wickets at an average of 34.27.
NZN