Michael Bracewell, the all-rounder, is poised to captain New Zealand for the first time on home soil in the upcoming five-match T20I series against Pakistan. This marks the second occasion Bracewell has led the national side against Pakistan; his debut as captain occurred during an away series last year when New Zealand fielded a largely second-string team. A similar situation unfolds this time, with only seven players from the Champions Trophy squad participating in this series.
Regular captain Mitchell Santner, along with key players Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, and Bevon Jacobs, are unavailable due to their commitments in the Indian Premier League. However, Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, and James Neesham are set to rejoin the squad after missing the previous series because of their participation in various T20 leagues.
In other team updates, veteran leg-spinner Ish Sodhi returns to the team after being omitted from the recent series against Sri Lanka. Fast bowler Ben Sears is also back in the squad, recovering from a hamstring injury that sidelined him from the Champions Trophy. Pacers Kyle Jamieson and William O’Rourke have been selected but will only participate in the first three matches of the series, as selectors aim to manage the workload of the fast bowling unit.
Bracewell expressed his excitement about another leadership opportunity and conveyed his anticipation for the challenge of leading New Zealand against Pakistan, whom he described as a ‘dangerous’ opponent.
‘It’s a great honour and a real privilege to captain your country,’ Bracewell stated.
‘I really enjoyed leading the team in Pakistan last year, and it’s good to see many players from that squad included in this series as well.’
‘Mitch Santner has done an excellent job as the white-ball captain, and I aim to build upon his positive work and foster a positive atmosphere for the team to perform effectively.’
‘Pakistan is consistently a formidable side in short-format cricket, possessing significant power and pace. We are aware they will be motivated to bounce back after an early exit from the Champions Trophy.’
‘For those returning from Dubai, there is undoubtedly disappointment, but also considerable pride in our performance and representation of New Zealand.’
‘We have greatly appreciated the support from afar and are eagerly looking forward to playing back home in front of our fans and in packed stadiums.’
