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New Zealand’s ODI squad has undergone significant changes ahead of their three-match series against Pakistan as wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham has been ruled out due to a fractured right hand.
Henry Nicholls joins the squad as Tom Latham’s replacement
The injury, sustained during training, has forced New Zealand to reshuffle their lineup, with experienced batter Henry Nicholls stepping in as his replacement. Latham’s absence is a major blow to New Zealand, given his experience as both a wicketkeeper and middle-order anchor. Nicholls, who has been part of New Zealand’s setup across formats, will step in to provide stability to the batting order. Nicholls, known for his ability to play spin well and anchor innings, is expected to slot into the middle order rather than take on wicketkeeping duties.
Will Young to play 1st ODI and Rhys Mariu earns maiden call-up
Will Young, who was set to be a key part of the opening combination, will only be available for the first ODI in Napier before leaving the squad for personal reasons. His absence in the final two ODIs has opened the door for young Canterbury batter Rhys Mariu, who has impressed in domestic cricket and earned his first international call-up. Mariu has shown great promise with his aggressive stroke play and adaptability across formats.
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New Zealand’s best playing XI for the ODI series against Pakistan
1. Henry Nicholls: Left-handed opening batter
Nicholls returns to the top order, where his experience in anchoring innings will be crucial. He brings a solid technique against both pace and spin, ensuring stability at the start. His ability to rotate strike and build partnerships makes him a dependable choice. Facing the new ball, he will look to set a solid platform for the middle order.
2. Nick Kelly: Left-handed opening batter
Replacing Young after the first ODI, Nick Kelly brings aggressive stroke play to the opening slot. He is known for his fearless approach and ability to take on fast bowlers in the powerplay. Kelly’s form in domestic cricket has been outstanding, making him an exciting addition. His attacking mindset will help New Zealand get off to flying starts.
3. Daryl Mitchell: Right-handed top-order batter
Mitchell is New Zealand’s most reliable ODI batter, capable of playing both aggressive and steady knocks. His ability to accelerate when needed will help control the middle overs. He is a proven match-winner, excelling under pressure in crunch situations. His experience in both home and overseas conditions makes him a key asset.
4. Mark Chapman: Left-handed middle-order batter
Chapman’s natural stroke play and aggressive intent make him a game-changer at No. 4. He can take on both pace and spin, ensuring the innings doesn’t slow down after the powerplay. His ability to play innovative shots allows him to counter different bowling attacks. His finishing skills will be vital in the death overs.
5. Michael Bracewell (C): Left-handed all-rounder & off-spinner
Now leading the side, Bracewell brings strategic acumen and leadership experience. His all-round ability allows New Zealand to maintain balance in both batting and bowling. As a captain, he will be crucial in making tactical bowling changes and field placements. His off-spin will add depth to the spin attack, complementing the pacers.
6. Mitch Hay (WK): Right-handed batting wicketkeeper
Hay steps into the wicketkeeping role, providing stability in the middle order. A natural stroke player, he has the ability to anchor or accelerate based on match needs. Behind the stumps, his quick reflexes and game awareness will be crucial for assisting the bowlers. His adaptability in different match situations makes him a key player.
7. Nathan Smith: Right-handed batting all-rounder
Smith’s presence provides a crucial balance as a seam-bowling all-rounder. He is an attacking lower-order batter who can deliver quick runs in the final overs. His ability to swing the ball with the new and old ball makes him valuable in all conditions. He will be a key contributor in both powerplay and death overs.
8. Jacob Duffy: Right-arm fast bowler
Duffy leads the pace attack with his sharp swing and accuracy. He can generate movement in seaming conditions, troubling batters early on. His ability to execute yorkers and slower deliveries makes him effective at the death. A dependable performer, Duffy will look to strike in the early overs to put pressure on Pakistan.
9. Ben Sears: Right-arm fast bowler
Sears adds extra pace and aggression, making him a threat with the new ball. His ability to hit hard lengths and trouble batters with short-pitched deliveries is a big plus. His death-over bowling will be critical in containing opposition hitters. A rising fast-bowling talent, he will look to make an impact in this series.
10. Will O’Rourke: Right-arm fast-medium bowler
O’Rourke brings height and bounce to New Zealand’s bowling attack. His discipline in hitting the right lengths makes him an effective first-change bowler. He provides key breakthroughs in the middle overs by building pressure on batters. His ability to extract movement even on flat pitches gives New Zealand an added advantage.
11. Adi Ashok: Right-arm leg-spinner
Ashok’s leg-spin adds variety to the attack, complementing Bracewell’s off-spin. He is a genuine wicket-taker, capable of breaking crucial partnerships in the middle overs. His ability to bowl with control and deception makes him an exciting prospect. If conditions favor spin, he can be a match-winner with his clever variations.
