Bowling allrounder Michael Neser has been recalled to Australia’s Test squad as Pat Cummins’ team embarks on a red-ball tour of New Zealand for the first time in eight years.

Neser is the only inclusion after Australia’s Test series against Pakistan and West Indies this summer.

The Queenslander played the last of his two Tests in December 2022 but has been a regular around the red-ball set-up for the last five years.

“It’s great to see Michael Neser get another opportunity in the squad following his ever-consistent performances over a long period of time and the conditions we expect,” Australia’s chairman of selectors George Bailey said.

“As we know every Test match provides vital opportunities to obtain valuable WTC (World Test Championship) points and we expect this tour will be a tough challenge against a very strong side who have been so consistent at home for a long period of time.”

Victoria quick Scott Boland will also fly across the Tasman despite suffering an injury scare during a Sheffield Shield match this week.

Boland had scans on his knee but was able to bowl in the second innings and will continue to be managed.

But Neser and Boland are unlikely to feature against the Black Caps unless there are injuries to Australia’s star pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.

The three played in all five of Australia’s Tests this summer but were rested during the recent ODI series against West Indies.

AUSTRALIA: Pat Cummins (capt), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw,  Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc.