New Zealand have unveiled a new-look squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series against Pakistan, set to begin on March 16. Experienced all-rounder Michael Bracewell will step up to lead the team, with regular captain Mitchell Santner unavailable due to other commitments.
A number of other New Zealand players will also be missing the series due to their commitments at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Mitchell Santner, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips and Lokie Ferguson will be missing the series due to IPL. Recently, New Zealand finished as the runner-up at the Champions Trophy, losing to India in final. A few players from the Champions Trophy campaign will be available for the Pakistan series.
Ish Sodhi, having missed the Sri Lanka series at home, makes his return to the side. While, Ben Sears, who was forced to withdraw from New Zealand’s Champions Trophy campaign, returns to the side. Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke have also been added to the side. Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke will be available for the first three games, while Matt Henry is in the squad for the fourth and fifth T20Is.
New Zealand chief selector Sam Wells stressed on the importance of T20I World Cup next year in India.
“The Pakistan series will provide an opportunity for all players to put their best foot forward and push their case for selection in the 15-player squad for next year’s major global tournament.
“We’re excited for Michael to captain the team for the first time on home soil. He’s a natural leader and in good form at the moment, so I’m sure he’s looking forward to the challenge ahead.”
New Zealand T20I squad: Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (matches 4, 5), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (matches 4, 5), Kyle Jamieson (matches 1, 2, 3), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke (matches 1, 2, 3), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi