- Tue, March 15, 2022
Loading
Loading
Michael Bracewell to Lead New Zealand in T20I Series Against Pakistan
New Zealand has announced its squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against Pakistan, with Michael Bracewell named as captain in Mitchell Santner’s absence. The series, which begins on March 16 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, will see a relatively fresh squad as several key players are unavailable due to their commitments in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The Black Caps finished as runners-up in the recently concluded ICC Champions Trophy 2025, losing to India in a closely fought final. With only seven players from that squad available for this series, Bracewell will have the responsibility of leading a relatively inexperienced side against a strong Pakistan unit.
New Zealand T20I squad vs Pakistan
Squad Adjustments Due to IPL Commitments
New Zealand’s white-ball captain Mitchell Santner, along with key players such as Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Lockie Ferguson, Glenn Phillips, and Bevon Jacobs, will be missing the series as they join their respective IPL franchises. Kane Williamson has also declared himself unavailable. This has led to the selection of a squad featuring a mix of experienced and emerging players.
Despite the absentees, the squad sees the return of Ish Sodhi, who missed the Sri Lanka home series, and Ben Sears, who is back from a hamstring injury that ruled him out of the Champions Trophy. Fast bowlers Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke will feature in the first three games before being replaced by Matt Henry and Zak Foulkes for the final two matches as part of the team's workload management.
Bracewell’s Leadership Challenge
Bracewell, a standout performer in the Champions Trophy, is eager to take on the leadership role once again. Having captained the side during their tour of Pakistan last year, he brings experience and a calm approach to the game. Speaking about his captaincy, Bracewell expressed his excitement and respect for the role.
“It’s a great honor and a real privilege to captain your country. I really enjoyed leading the side in Pakistan last year, and it’s great to have many players from that squad included again,” Bracewell said. “Mitch Santner has done a fantastic job as white-ball captain, and I’ll be looking to build on his work, ensuring an enjoyable environment for the team.”
New Zealand’s captain is also aware of the challenge Pakistan poses. “Pakistan is always a dangerous short-form side with plenty of power and pace. They’ll be eager to bounce back after an early Champions Trophy exit, and we have to be at our best,” he added.
Managing Player Workloads Ahead of the T20 World Cup
With the ICC T20 World Cup set to take place in India and Sri Lanka next year, New Zealand selectors are keeping an eye on player fitness and workload. Selector Sam Wells emphasized the importance of the T20 World Cup preparation.
“We are narrowing our focus on the ICC T20 World Cup, and this series is an essential part of that build-up,” Wells said. “We communicated to players that availability for this series would be crucial in selection considerations. Managing the workload of players who recently participated in the Champions Trophy is also a priority.”
Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, and Jimmy Neesham make their way back into the squad after missing the previous series due to T20 league commitments. Their presence adds depth and experience to a team missing its usual superstars.
Series Schedule and Expectations
The five-match T20I series will span 10 days, with the first game set for March 16 in Christchurch and the final match scheduled for March 26 in Wellington. Following the T20Is, the teams will also compete in a three-match ODI series from March 29 to April 5.
For New Zealand, this series offers an opportunity to test their bench strength ahead of the T20 World Cup, while Pakistan will look to regain form after their disappointing Champions Trophy campaign. With both teams eager to make a statement, fans can expect a thrilling contest.
Comments:
Leave a Reply