For the forthcoming five-match Twenty20 International Series against Pakistan, the selectors have named a 15-man squad, with Michael Bracewell taking the team’s captaincy for the first time. In addition to uncapped player Will O’Rourke, Tim Robinson has been called up for the first time.
Conversely, New Zealand will be without a number of their star players since they are either unavailable because of their IPL stays or for other reasons. In the IPL, there are many teams that have Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, and Kane Williamson. Colin Munro, Tom Latham (awaiting the birth of a second child), Will Young (winter contract with Nottinghamshire), Tim Southee (conditioning), and Tom Latham were also not available for selection.
Bracewell will be playing internationally for the first time since March 2023, when he was sidelined by a ruptured Achilles and a fractured finger. During the Plunket Shield, the 33-year-old all-rounder came back in action and achieved a first-class career-best of 8 for 41 in his first match back.
Sam Wells, a selector for New Zealand, said of Michael Bracewell, “It’s exciting to see him back playing cricket again after a long period on the sidelines.”
“His return to top form following an Achilles rupture is evidence of his dedication and hard work. We think he will be well-suited to lead the team in Pakistan since he is a well-respected leader with experience leading Wellington and the New Zealand A and XI sides.”
Robinson joined the team fresh off a strong batting season in which he finished second in the Super Smash with 298 runs scored, despite playing in just six of Wellington’s 11 games because of injuries. Among his total was a 64-ball 139 against Otago. O’Rourke, who has participated in three ODIs and two Tests, performed admirably in the Super Smash, claiming 12 wickets at an average of 19.41.
Tim’s domestic career is still in its early stages, but this season showed off his raw talent and explosive power. In addition to his excellent fielding, we think his skill set is a good fit for the format. We are thrilled with Will’s initial efforts in both of the forms he has played in for the national team in cricket. “This tour presents a great opportunity for him to demonstrate his abilities in a foreign environment,” Wells stated in reference to the players without caps.
On April 12, New Zealand will leave for Pakistan. Rawalpindi, which will also host the following two matches on April 20 and 21, will host the first Twenty20 International on April 18. The final two games of the series are scheduled for April 25 and 27 in Lahore.
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