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New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has been appointed as the captain to lead the team in the upcoming five-match T20I series against Pakistan. The selectors announced a 15-member squad for the series, with Michael Bracewell assuming the leadership role.
New Zealand will participate in the five-match series in Pakistan as part of their preparations for the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA in June. Several players are absent from the squad due to their commitments in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL).
Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, and Kane Williamson are engaged in IPL duties. Will Young is pursuing an overseas deal with Nottinghamshire, Tom Latham is awaiting the birth of his second child, and Tim Southee is currently resting.
Michael Bracewell Set To New Zealand In Pakistan
Michael Bracewell will lead the squad, despite not having played a T20i in over a year. He returned to the national team following his recovery from injury. He suffered a ruptured Achilles and then a broken finger while playing for Worcestershire in the T20 Blast in June.
Bracewell has been sidelined from the national team since March last year. The all-rounder also missed the ODI World Cup. He recently made a stunning cricket comeback. He displayed his finest first-class performance with the ball in the Plunket Shield upon recovery.
Will O’Rourke and Tim Robinson Receive Maiden Call-Up
Will O’Rourke received his maiden call-up to the T20I squad following his successful debut in the test and ODI teams last summer. The 22-year-old notably achieved the best match figures for a New Zealand debutant against South Africa, claiming 9 wickets for 93 runs.
Tim Robinson is poised to make his T20I debut after receiving his first call-up. His inclusion follows his outstanding performance in the Super Smash, where he emerged as the second-leading run-scorer, with a notable innings of 139 off 64 against Otago.
New Zealand Squad: Michael Bracewell (capt), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Adam Milne, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi
Michael Bracewell Has Faced A Long Period On The Sideline – Sam Wells
Blackcaps selector Sam Wells commended Michael Bracewell for demonstrating commendable patience and dedication in the past year to work his way back from injury.
With leadership experience for Wellington and New Zealand A and XI teams, Wells believes Bracewell is well-equipped to lead the group in Pakistan.
“Michael has faced a long period on the sideline and it’s exciting to see him back playing cricket again. The fact he’s back playing at a high level after an Achilles rupture is a testament to his hard work and application,” said Wells.
“He’s a well-respected leader and has captaincy experience for Wellington along with New Zealand A and New Zealand XI teams, which we believe holds him in good stead to lead the group in Pakistan.”
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