Michael Bracewell to Lead New Zealand in Home T20I Series Against Pakistan
Author: Joy Sarcar
Updated At:
New Zealand's all-rounder Michael Bracewell is all set to take on the captaincy role for the first time at home as his team gears up to face Pakistan in a five-match T20I series. The 34-year-old previously captained the Black Caps against Pakistan away from home last year when New Zealand fielded a largely inexperienced squad. This series appears to follow a similar pattern, with only seven players from the Champions Trophy squad making it to the roster.
Key Players Missing Due to IPL Commitments
The absence of several key players due to their commitments in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has prompted the selectors to look for alternative options. Regular skipper Mitchell Santner, along with Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, and Bevon Jacobs, will not be participating in the series.
However, the return of experienced players like Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, and James Neesham, who missed the previous series due to their involvement in various T20 leagues, offers some balance to the squad.
Ish Sodhi and Ben Sears Make Comebacks
In a move aimed at strengthening their bowling attack, veteran leg-spinner Ish Sodhi has been recalled after missing the recent Sri Lanka series. Meanwhile, pace bowler Ben Sears is making his return to the squad after recovering from a hamstring injury that kept him out of the Champions Trophy. The fast-bowling department will also include Kyle Jamieson and William O’Rourke, but the selectors have planned to monitor their workload closely. The duo will only be available for the first three games of the series.
Bracewell Embraces Leadership Role
Bracewell is enthusiastic about the challenge of leading New Zealand against a formidable Pakistan team. Speaking about the opportunity, he said, “It’s a great honour and a real privilege to captain your country. I really enjoyed leading the side in Pakistan last year, and we've got many players from that squad included for this series as well, which is nice.”
He also acknowledged the exceptional work done by Mitchell Santner as the white-ball captain and expressed his intention to build on that foundation. “Mitch Santner’s done a great job since taking over as white-ball captain, and I’ll really just be trying to build on his good work and create an enjoyable environment for the guys to perform in.”
Bracewell was mindful of Pakistan’s strength in the shorter format, describing them as a “dangerous short-form side with lots of power and pace.” He noted that Pakistan would be eager to redeem themselves after their early exit from the Champions Trophy.
Squad Announcement
The New Zealand T20 squad for the series against Pakistan comprises:
Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (games 4 & 5), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (games 4 & 5), Kyle Jamieson (games 1, 2 & 3), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O'Rourke (games 1, 2 & 3), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.
With several fresh faces and the return of key players, New Zealand will be aiming to showcase their depth in talent and preparation for future challenges. This series will also be closely watched by enthusiasts looking for the top cricket betting sites in India, as the T20 format promises thrilling encounters.
The five-match series promises to be an exciting contest between two strong teams, with New Zealand keen to impress their home crowd and Pakistan eager to bounce back from their Champions Trophy disappointment.
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