Michael Bracewell
Michael Bracewell is set to captain New Zealand for the first time on home soil as the Black Caps prepare to face Pakistan in a five-match T20 series.
The squad, announced on Tuesday, is notably missing several key players who are unavailable due to their Indian Premier League (IPL) commitments.
Bracewell, who played a crucial role in New Zealand’s journey to the final of the ICC Champions Trophy, will now lead a squad featuring seven players from that one-day team.
The absence of regular skipper Mitchell Santner, as well as key players like Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, and Glenn Phillips, has opened the door for new and returning faces in the team.
Kane Williamson has also opted out of the series, further altering the squad composition. Despite these absences, the Black Caps remain confident as they begin their preparations for the T20 World Cup, set to take place in India next year.
Expressing his excitement over leading the side, Bracewell acknowledged the responsibility and honor of captaining New Zealand. He praised Santner’s leadership in white-ball cricket and expressed his intent to build on the strong foundation already established.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s strengths, he recognized their explosive batting and formidable pace attack, adding that the visitors will be looking for redemption after their disappointing early exit from the Champions Trophy.
The squad includes the return of experienced spinner Ish Sodhi, while fast bowler Ben Sears makes his comeback after recovering from a torn hamstring. Hard-hitting batters Finn Allen, Jimmy Neesham, and Tim Seifert have also been named, bringing additional firepower to the lineup.
New Zealand selectors have opted for a flexible squad, with some players featuring in selected games. Zak Foulkes and Matt Henry will be available for the final two matches, while Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke will be involved in the first three games only.
The series, which kicks off on Sunday in Christchurch, marks an important phase in both teams’ preparations for the T20 World Cup. With several key players missing, the matches will provide an opportunity for emerging talents to prove themselves at the international level.
New Zealand T20 Squad Against Pakistan
Captain: Michael Bracewell
Players: Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (games 4 and 5 only), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (games 4 and 5 only), Kyle Jamieson (games 1, 2, and 3 only), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke (games 1, 2, and 3 only), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.
