Wellington, March 11, 2025: New Zealand have unveiled a fresh-look squad for their upcoming five-match T20I series against Pakistan, with Michael Bracewell named as captain in the absence of regular skipper Mitch Santner.
Bracewell, who previously led the team during their white-ball tour of Pakistan last year, will captain on home soil for the first time. Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, he acknowledged the strong team environment and the support from fans.
“I really enjoyed leading the side in Pakistan last year, and it’s great to have many players from that squad back in the team. I’ll be working to build on Mitch Santner’s great leadership and create a positive environment for the team,” Bracewell said.
The squad includes six players from New Zealand’s Champions Trophy campaign, with notable returns for Ish Sodhi and Ben Sears, who missed recent series. Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke will be available for the first three matches, while Matt Henry, the leading wicket-taker at the Champions Trophy, is set to join for the final two games, subject to fitness clearance.
With the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, New Zealand selectors are closely monitoring potential squad members. Sam Wells, New Zealand selector, emphasized the importance of commitment as players prepare for the global event.
Several regulars, including Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, and Glenn Phillips, are unavailable due to other commitments.
New Zealand’s T20I Squad Against Pakistan
Michael Bracewell (captain), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (matches 4-5), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (matches 4-5), Kyle Jamieson (matches 1-3), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke (matches 1-3), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi
The series will serve as a crucial platform for emerging players to cement their places in the squad as New Zealand gears up for the T20 World Cup preparations.