Blackcaps vs Bangladesh: Will Young to play debut test with Kane Williamson sidelined

Central Stags batsman Will Young will play his first test on Saturday after Kane Williamson failed a fitness test.

Young has been a part of the Blackcaps setup since the UAE tour, but great form from the top six has left him surplus to requirements until now.

Williamson has failed to recover from a minor pectoral injury meaning Young will bat at number three against Bangladesh at Christchurch's Hagley Oval.

Coach Gar Stead said while Williamson's condition had improved this week, there is no need to risk such a pivotal player with a Cricket World Cup just two months away.

"Kane is obviously a really important player for us and with the nature of the injury we couldn't be sure he wouldn't aggravate it," he noted.

"He's improving every day and will continue his rehabilitation as planned.

"Will has been waiting in the wings for a while now and he'll; get a great opportunity batting at number three in a settled line-up." 

Wicket-keeper BJ Watling will play after overcoming a hamstring injury.

Newshub.