New Zealand's squad for the five-match T20I series against Pakistan, commencing March 16th, has been announced. Veteran all-rounder Michael Bracewell will captain the side, as regular captain Mitchell Santner and other key players are unavailable due to their participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Sports News: The New Zealand cricket team suffered a 4-wicket defeat against India in the final of the Champions Trophy 2025. Following this loss, the Kiwis have shifted their focus to their next campaign: a five-match T20I series against Pakistan, for which the team has been announced.
This T20I series, beginning March 16th, will see Michael Bracewell leading the New Zealand team. The series is considered crucial for both teams in their preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Bracewell Leads New Zealand's New Challenge
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed that top players like Mitchell Santner, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra will miss the series due to IPL commitments. This has led to Michael Bracewell's appointment as captain. Bracewell previously led the team on a tour of Pakistan in 2023, where the series ended in a 2-2 draw.
New Zealand recently faced a 4-wicket defeat against India in the Champions Trophy 2025 final. Following this loss, the Kiwi team is now geared up for its next mission. This series against Pakistan presents a valuable opportunity for the team to regain confidence.
Bracewell Expresses Delight
This series offers a significant opportunity for Michael Bracewell to showcase his leadership skills. He performed admirably in the Champions Trophy 2025, taking 4 wickets against Bangladesh and scoring a half-century in the final against India. Now, under his captaincy, New Zealand's young team will present its challenge to Pakistan.
In a press release issued by the New Zealand Cricket Board, Michael Bracewell stated, "It's a great honour and privilege to captain my country. Leading the team on last year's tour of Pakistan was a fantastic experience, and I look forward to working with a similar core group of players this time around."
New Zealand's T20I Squad
Michael Bracewell, Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Jack Foulkes, Mitch Hepburn, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O'Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, and Ish Sodhi.
