New Zealand announced their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan with Tom Latham as the skipper. Notably, full-time captain Mitchell Santner is currently busy playing in the Indian Premier League 2025 with Mumbai Indians, which made him unavailable for the series. Another key name available from the squad is of the star batter Kane Williamson, who has opted himself out of consideration over personal reasons.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Abbas and Nick Kelly are the fresh names, who have earned their maiden call-ups to the BlackCaps squad. The duo received their place in the side on the back of some brilliant performances in the domestic season that has gone by.
Kelly might be seen as the preferred opener for the side alongside Will Young, as both Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra are playing in the IPL for Chennai Super Kings. The 31-year-old batter had scored 320 runs from nine games in the Ford Trophy, in addition to the 749 runs from 14 innings in the Plunket Shield tournament. Kelly averaged around 58.00 during the tournament, which included a quartet of centuries as well.
On the other hand, Abbas is a middle-order batter who has performed well in the domestic season. He is one of the most talented young players and was also in contention for New Zealand’s U-19 team for the ODI World Cup in 2022. Kiwis have a good batting attack for the home series in the likes of Will Young, Nathan Smith, and Daryl Mitchell.
O’Rourke to lead pace attack
When it comes to bowling, Will O’Rourke will be leading the pace attack in the absence of senior bowlers like Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson. Henry is out of the series as he is still recovering from shoulder and knee injuries, while Jamieson is not included due to workload management.
Kane Williamson wasn’t included in the selection process, as he didn’t make himself available for the series. He is in India, doing commentary for the IPL 2025. The cricketer will then be travelling to Pakistan for taking part in the PSL 2025.
During the ongoing multi-format series, the hosts have already played four T20Is against the Men in Green so far and still have one more game to go, set to be played in Wellington. The series is 3-1 in favour of the Blackcaps, with the last game is scheduled for March 26.
Also Read: Kane Williamson becomes first New Zealand batter to reach 19,000 international runs
New Zealand ODI squad for NZ vs PAK 2025
Tom Latham (capt & wk), Muhammad Abbas, Adithya Ashok, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Mitch Hay (wk), Nick Kelly, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, and Will Young.
Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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