IPL Commitments Lead to Squad Rotation
With the Indian Premier League (IPL) starting on March 22, New Zealand has opted to rest several key players for their upcoming five-match T20I series against Pakistan, which begins on March 16.
Michael Bracewell, who played a crucial role in New Zealand’s Champions Trophy campaign, has been appointed as captain in the absence of Mitchell Santner.
Seven Players From Champions Trophy Included in T20 Squad
New Zealand recently finished as runners-up in the Champions Trophy, losing the final to India. Out of the selected T20 squad, seven players were part of that 50-over tournament, including captain Bracewell. Managing their workload will be a key focus for the team management.
Due to IPL commitments, the following players were unavailable for selection:
- Devon Conway
- Lockie Ferguson
- Glenn Phillips
- Rachin Ravindra
- Mitchell Santner
Additionally, Bevon Jacobs, who featured in the recent T20 series against Sri Lanka, was also unavailable due to IPL commitments, while Kane Williamson opted out of selection.
Bowlers’ Workload Management Plan
New Zealand selectors have implemented a rotation policy for the fast bowlers:
- Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke will play only the first three matches.
- Matt Henry, the leading wicket-taker in the Champions Trophy (despite missing the final due to injury), has been selected for the last two matches (games 4 & 5), subject to fitness assessment upon returning from the ODI squad.
This cautious approach ensures the pacers remain fresh and fit for future assignments.
Focus on 2026 T20 World Cup Preparation
New Zealand selector Sam Wells emphasized that the series against Pakistan is not just about immediate competition but also an essential step in the preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup in India in February-March 2026.
“We have been clear with the players that availability for this series was required to be considered for the T20 World Cup squad,” Wells stated.
“Half of this squad is returning from the Champions Trophy on Wednesday, so we need to manage them carefully,” he added.
New Zealand Squad for the Pakistan Series
Captain: Michael Bracewell
Squad: Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (games 4 & 5), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (games 4 & 5), Kyle Jamieson (games 1-3), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke (games 1-3), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi
With the IPL on the horizon, this series provides an opportunity for New Zealand’s emerging talents to prove themselves on the international stage. The team, led by Bracewell, will be keen to put up a strong fight against Pakistan.(Dubai7-Realmoneygame)