New Zealand has faced a major blow ahead of their upcoming ODI series against Pakistan after their captain Tom Latham ruled out of odi series with a fractured right hand. Latham sustained the injury during a training practice and is expected to miss at least four weeks of action. The injury will pose a dilemma for the Black Caps ahead of their three-match series against Pakistan.
Tom Latham ruled out of ODI series, Injury Details
Latham, who is scheduled to captain the team in place of Mitchell Santner who is busy playing the IPL, picked up the injury during a practice session early this week. X-rays proved there was a break in his right hand and was compelled to drop out of the ODI series. The unplanned injury left a vacuum in New Zealand’s leadership as well as wicketkeeping responsibilities.
Michael Bracewell Steps In
With Latham unavailable, Michael Bracewell will also lead the New Zealand team, having already done so during the T20I series against Pakistan. His leadership will be important as New Zealand embarks on the ODI part of the tour. Mitch Hay will replace Latham behind the wicket.
Squad Changes and Player Call-Ups
Along with Latham’s injury, Will Young will also miss out following the first ODI in Napier. Young will depart from the team to attend the birth of his first child with his wife. In place of his absence, uncapped 23-year-old batter Rhys Mariu has been handed his first call-up to the ODI team.
Henry Nicholls also comes back to the team following a good run of form in the domestic league. Nicholls, who was last seen playing for New Zealand internationally against Sri Lanka in November 2024, has been in great form after recuperating from a calf injury. He will contribute experience and talent to the team.
Coach’s Comment on Squad Changes
New Zealand’s coach, Gary Stead, stressed the need for flexibility on this tour. We’ve had to be adaptable this tour with many players out of action for various reasons. What it does do is provide opportunities for other players, and it’s good to bring Rhys into the setting for the first time and to welcome back Henry.
Henry’s been in good nick since coming back from his three-month lay-off with injury, and he’ll bring useful skills and experience to the side,” Stead said.
ODI Series Details
The three-game ODI series between Pakistan and New Zealand commences on March 29, 2025, at McLean Park in Napier. The other two games will be played in Hamilton on April 2, and Mount Maunganui on April 5, 2025.
While New Zealand tackles these challenges, they will seek to maintain their good form following a comprehensive 4-1 win in the T20I series against Pakistan despite the absence of some key players.
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