All-rounder Michael Bracewell will lead a second-string New Zealand T20I squad in the five-T20I series against Pakistan. Returning to international cricket after Match 2023 after recovering from a ruptured Achilles and a broken finger, Bracewell will become New Zealand's 10th T20I captain.
Tim Robinson has received his maiden call-up whereas Will O'Rourke who is yet to make his debut in the shortest format of the game has been added to the squad as well.
New Zealand are without the services of their prominent players -- Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, and Kane Williamson – who are currently part of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Only Conway is not in India due to a thumb injury.
"Michael has faced a long period on the sideline and it's exciting to see him back playing cricket again," said New Zealand selector Sam Wells. "The fact he's back playing at a high level after an Achilles rupture is testament to his hard work and application. He's a well-respected leader and has captaincy experience for Wellington along with New Zealand A and New Zealand XI teams, which we believe holds him in good stead to lead the group in Pakistan."
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New recruits' impressive numbers
Tim impressed the selectors with 298 runs from just six matches in the Super Smash. He was the second-highest run-getter in the tournament. He scored a century and his strike rate was 187.42. On the other hand, O'Rourke who has played just two Tests and three ODIs, bagged 12 wickets in the T20 tournament for Canterbury.
"Tim is still very early in his domestic career but his natural ability and explosive power was on full display this season. Combined with his outstanding fielding, we believe he has a skill-set that's well suited to the format. We've been delighted with Will's early efforts in international cricket, in both the formats he's played so far. This tour will be an excellent chance for him to test his skills in foreign conditions," said Wells about the new recruits.
The T20I series will begin on April 18. The first three games will be played in Rawalpindi. The series will go on till April 27. The last two games will be played in Lahore.
New Zealand T20I squad
Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Adam Milne, Jimmy Neesham, Will O'Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi
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