Bowler Kyle Jamieson will return to the international fold for the Blackcaps' upcoming test series against England.
The towering quick hasn't been selected for New Zealand since injuring his back during the tour of England last June, but has been included in the 14-strong squad for the Tauranga and Wellington matches.
After his star turn during last month's tour to Pakistan, spinner Ish Sodhi has retained his spot in the squad. The 30-year-old returned from a three-year hiatus in whites to finish the drawn series as the leading wicket-taker (13), while adding valuable contributions with the bat.
All-rounder Michael Bracewell will provide the other spin-bowling option. Spinner Ajaz Patel and batter Glenn Phillips are the most notable omissions, failing to retain their places in the red-ball squad, after touring Pakistan last month.
Blackcaps coach Gary Stead says Jamieson's availability is testament to the hard work he's invested in his recovery.
"Kyle is a very determined character, with a strong desire to play international cricket for New Zealand," said Stead. "Since he was forced from the field in Nottingham, he's been very clear that he wants to get his body right to return."
Jamieson will join the New Zealand XI for England's warm-up match at Hamilton's Seddon Park next week, allowing him some valuable overs before his anticipated his test return.
On Thursday, he featured for Auckland in the domestic 50-over competition against Canterbury, getting through nine overs (0/34), as he worked his way back to match condition.
Wicketkeeper-batter Tom Blundell and bowler Matt Henry both finished the Pakistan tour with injuries, but are expected to be fully fit and available for selection.
The squad will assemble at Tauranga on February 12, before the opening pink-ball day-night test at Bay Oval, starting February 16. The second test will be held at Wellington Basin Reserve from February 12.
The Blackcaps will be out for revenge, after being swept 3-0 in last year's test series - England's first with new coach Brendon McCullum at the helm.
Blackcaps test squad to play England: Tim Southee (capt.)Michael Bracewell, Tom Blundell (wk), Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ish Sodhi, Blair Tickner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young
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