In a big blow to New Zealand, wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Latham has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan due to a fractured hand. This unfortunate injury has put New Zealand team in a difficult position, as many of their seasoned campaigners are already out of the series due to their IPL commitments.
Latham was due to lead the side in the absence of regular skipper Mitchell Santner, who is busy playing IPL. Now, with Latham out, Michael Bracewell will continue to lead the side, having already done so in the preceding five-match T20I series. Henry Nicholls would replace Latham in the squad, while Mitch Hay will replace Latham as wicketkeeper.
Meanwhile, Will Young will drop out of the ODI squad after the first game in order to be with his wife as they await the birth of their first child. For the second and third games, Will Young will be replaced by batter Rhys Mariu, who has been handed his maiden call-up
"We've had to be flexible this tour with numerous players unavailable for different reasons. What it does do is offer opportunities to others players and it's nice to introduce Rhys into the environment for the first time, as well as welcome back Henry,” New Zealand coach Gary Stead said.
"Henry's been in good form since returning from his three-month injury lay-off and he'll add valuable skills and experience to the team.
"It's obviously disappointing to lose Tom as captain on the eve of the series and we wish him a speedy recovery. The side is in safe hands with Michael who's done a great job through the T20I series.
"Finally we wish Will and his wife Elise all the best next week as they await their first child which is such a special and important time for them."