New Zealand on Friday (January 26) announced their 14-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa at home.

The Black Caps squad features No. 1 ranked Test batter Kane Williamson, who did not play the last three matches of the recently concluded T20I series against Pakistan due to a hamstring strain.

Rachin Ravindra, who has become a household name after his stunning exploits in the World Cup last year, has been included in the squad as well. The southpaw will be stepping into the middle order, taking the place of the 32-year-old veteran Henry Nicholls.

"It was a very tough decision. Henry has been part of the squad for 56 Tests. Whenever you leave a player out, it weighs heavy, but we felt it's time for Rachin," said New Zealand head coach Gary Stead.

"We know the talent he is and feel he will make a really good fist of it at this stage in his career."

Pace bowler Kyle Jamieson is also making a comeback to the Test side after recovering from a back injury.

In the second Test, slated to be held in Hamilton from February 13, the squad will see the inclusion of uncapped seamer Will O'Rourke, potentially marking his debut.

The two-match series is scheduled to get underway on February 4 at Mount Maunganui, as the Kiwis aim for their first-ever Test series win against South Africa.

The Proteas, on the other hand, have named a depleted squad for the New Zealand Test tour as their contracted players are busy playing in the SA20 competition.

New Zealand Test squad: Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young.

(With AFP inputs)