Cricket: Southee unlikely to play in second test, says Hesson

New Zealand's Tim Southee ideally would have some competitive bowling behind him before returning to test action. Photo / AP

He's over there, but don't bank on Tim Southee being recalled to lead the New Zealand bowling attack in the second test against Bangladesh next week.

Southee had ankle surgery in July and was omitted from the test squad to Bangladesh.

But the door was left open depending on how rapidly he regained full fitness and form.

He flew to Bangladesh and has been training but did not play in the drawn first test at Chittagong - where New Zealand opted for a two-two seam and spin attack with backup in both departments, respectively, from new cap Corey Anderson and Kane Williamson.

Southee, 24, has taken 83 wickets at 34 in his 26 tests. But, more relevantly, he has taken 38 in his last eight tests over the past 14 months at 22 apiece, including 10 for 108 in the loss to England at Lord's in May - only the second New Zealander after Dion Nash to take a double-figure haul at the game's most famous ground - a career-best seven for 64 at Bangalore and eight for 130 in the test win at Colombo late last year.

There are two issues about Southee: readiness and what lies ahead.

Southee ideally would have some competitive bowling behind him before returning to test action, and New Zealand have a busy international season ahead, with five tests against the West Indies and India, as well as 12 limited-overs internationals from December to mid-February.

Due respect to Bangladesh, who are increasingly competitive on their own pitches, but sterner tests await.

"It's probably unlikely, but we'll make an assessment nearer the time," New Zealand coach Mike Hesson said yesterday on Southee's possible second test inclusion.

"We have got options and we won't force Tim if he's not ready. He's too valuable an asset for us to push him, and we've got other seamers who are fresh."

Southee is sure to see action in the ODI series which begins on October 29.