WELLINGTON, Sept 27: Batsman Michael Papps returns to the New Zealand Test squad for their tour of South Africa starting next month as selectors continue their search for a successful opening partnership.

Papps has played only six Tests since making his debut in 2003-04 in a career marred by injury and patchy form. He is likely to partner Craig Cumming who played in New Zealand’s last Test outing, a tied home series against Sri Lanka in December last year.

The opening batting positions have been a longstanding problem for New Zealand, and Jamie How, one of the opening pair against Sri Lanka last year, has been passed over.

“The selectors are looking to form a quality opening partnership,” New Zealand coach John Bracewell said.

Promising middle-order batsman Ross Taylor has been named in the Test squad for the first time after establishing himself in the one-day arena, as has quick bowler Mark Gillespie.

Pace bowler Kyle Mills returns after recovering from a serious knee injury, while notable omissions include batsmen Lou Vincent and Craig McMillan.

All-rounder James Franklin was not considered due to a knee injury but Bracewell said it was hoped he might be fit for the following one-day series in South Africa.

New Zealand travel to South Africa next month for two warm-up matches before the first of two Tests starts on Nov 8.

Daniel Vettori will skipper the Test side for the first time after the selectors decided to pass the reins from decade-long captain Stephen Fleming, who remains in the team as a batsman.

New Zealand squad: Daniel Vettori (captain), Shane Bond, Craig Cumming, Stephen Fleming, Mark Gillespie, Peter Fulton, Chris Martin, Michael Mason, Brendon McCullum, Kyle Mills, Jacob Oram, Michael Papps, Jeetan Patel, Scott Styris, Ross Taylor.—AFP