Auckland, March 22, 2025: New Zealand has announced key changes to their squad for the final two T20Is against Pakistan, with pacer Matt Henry ruled out due to a shoulder injury. The New Zealand Cricket Board confirmed on Saturday that Henry, who was initially named in the squad, will now shift his focus to rehabilitation.
Zakary Foulkes, who was originally selected for the first three matches, has been retained as Henry’s replacement. Foulkes delivered an impressive spell of 1 for 11 in the first T20I but proved expensive in the second game, conceding 32 runs without taking a wicket.
Kyle Jamieson has been dropped after an inconsistent series. Despite being named Player of the Match in the first T20I with figures of 3 for 8, he struggled in the third game, conceding 54 runs without a wicket.
Will O’Rourke has been brought in as Jamieson’s replacement for the final two matches.
Henry sustained his right shoulder injury while diving in the outfield during New Zealand’s Champions Trophy semi-final win against South Africa earlier this month, which also ruled him out of the final against India. Additionally, he has been managing a persistent left knee issue.
Among the pacers, Jacob Duffy has been the standout performer, leading the wicket charts with seven scalps in three matches. James Neesham and Ben Sears have featured in two games each, while spinners Ish Sodhi and captain Michael Bracewell have played in all three matches.
New Zealand currently leads the five-match series 2-1.
New Zealand squad for final two T20Is
Michael Bracewell (capt), Finn Allen, Mitchell Hay (wk), Tim Robinson, Tim Seifert (wk), Mark Chapman, Zakary Foulkes, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Ish Sodhi.
With New Zealand aiming to seal the series and Pakistan looking to stage a comeback, the final two matches promise an exciting finish to the series.
