Williamson likely to play first Test

New Zealand batsman Kane Williamson has been included in the Test squad for the home series against West Indies and is likely to play the first match in Dunedin beginning on December 3, pending a final fitness clearance. Williamson had returned home mid-way through the tour of Bangladesh after breaking his thumb, and also missed the limited-overs series in Sri Lanka.

"Kane has been in the nets batting and bowling and getting his intensity levels up," general manager national selection, Bruce Edgar, said. "We're confident he should be right come Tuesday."

The 13-man squad also included fast bowler Tim Southee, who had ankle surgery in July. Southee played the limited-overs games in Bangladesh, and took match figures of 6 for 79 in his most recent Plunket Shield match for Northern Districts. Allrounder Corey Anderson was also in the squad despite suffering a rib injury in Sri Lanka.

Otago batsman Aaron Redmond also made a comeback as injury cover for Williamson. Redmond last played a Test in 2008, but has been in good form of late. "Aaron has made a good start to the Plunket Shield to date, and on top of the 67 he scored yesterday for the New Zealand XI we felt he was the best top-order batting cover," Edgar said.

Redmond was preferred ahead of Dean Brownlie, who was dropped on the tour of Bangladesh, and Tom Latham. Brownlie had been a fixture in the middle order this year, but five lean Tests against England - where his highest score - 36 cost him his position last month and his start to the domestic season has not been enough to earn a recall.

Squad: Brendon McCullum (capt), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Peter Fulton, Aaron Redmond, Hamish Rutherford, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson