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Michael Bracewell to Lead New Zealand in T20I Series Against Pakistan
Experienced All-Rounder Steps Up as Captain
New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has been appointed as captain for the upcoming five-match T20I series against Pakistan. This marks his first opportunity to lead the Black Caps on home soil. Bracewell had previously captained New Zealand against Pakistan last year in an away series when the squad featured several fringe players. A similar scenario will unfold this time, with just seven members from the Champions Trophy squad set to feature in the series.
Key Players Unavailable Due to IPL Commitments
Several frontline players, including regular captain Mitchell Santner, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, and Bevon Jacobs, will miss the series due to their participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Their absence has paved the way for other talented players to step up and showcase their abilities on the international stage.
Return of Key Players Strengthens the Squad
The return of experienced T20 players Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, and James Neesham provides a boost to the squad. The trio had missed New Zealand’s previous series due to their commitments in various T20 leagues but are now back to bolster the batting and all-round options.
Meanwhile, leg-spinner Ish Sodhi has been recalled after missing the recent Sri Lanka series, and fast bowler Ben Sears is back following a hamstring injury that sidelined him during the Champions Trophy.
Additionally, pacers Kyle Jamieson and William O’Rourke have been selected but will only be available for the first three matches as selectors aim to manage their workloads effectively.
Bracewell Excited for the Challenge
Expressing his excitement about leading the team, Bracewell acknowledged the challenges posed by Pakistan’s T20 side, particularly their powerful batting lineup and pace attack.
“It’s a great honor and a real privilege to captain your country,” Bracewell said. “I really enjoyed leading the side in Pakistan last year, and we have a good mix of players from that squad returning for this series.”
Bracewell also credited Mitchell Santner for his leadership in white-ball cricket and emphasized his goal of maintaining a positive team environment.
“Mitch Santner has done a great job since taking over as white-ball captain, and I’ll just be trying to build on his good work and create an enjoyable environment for the guys to perform in,” he added.
Pakistan: A Formidable Opponent in T20 Cricket
New Zealand is preparing to face a highly competitive Pakistan squad known for its explosive batting and fast-bowling depth. Bracewell acknowledged Pakistan’s disappointing early exit from the Champions Trophy but warned that they remain a dangerous opponent.
“Pakistan is always a dangerous short-form side with a lot of power and pace. We know they’ll be eager to bounce back after their Champions Trophy campaign,” Bracewell noted.
New Zealand T20 Squad for Pakistan Series
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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
Where to Watch the Series
New Zealand fans can catch the T20I series live on major sports networks, while streaming services will provide online coverage. For complete details on the schedule, venues, and match timings, visit New Zealand Cricket’s official website .
For more updates on New Zealand’s T20 matches and team developments, check out our comprehensive cricket news section.
