Kiwis Announce Squad for Pakistan, Bracewell Named Captain
In a surprising move, New Zealand has named seasoned all-rounder Michael Bracewell as their captain for the upcoming five-match T20I series against Pakistan this month.
Bracewell, who hasn’t played an international match since March of the previous year, has recently returned to domestic cricket following a series of injuries, including a ruptured Achilles and a broken finger.
However, with key players like Kane Williamson and Mitchell Santner unavailable due to their commitments in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Bracewell has been chosen to lead the Kiwis in the five-match series in Pakistan. This series will serve as valuable practice for both teams ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June.
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New Zealand selector Sam Wells expressed his excitement at welcoming Bracewell back and is confident that the 33-year-old will excel in his role as captain.
“Michael has faced a long period on the sideline and it’s exciting to see him back playing cricket again,” Wells said. “The fact he’s back playing at a high level after an Achilles rupture is testament to his hard work and application.”
“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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Bracewell will lead a young New Zealand side on the tour, with regulars missing due to their IPL commitments. Other first-choice players are also unavailable for various reasons, with Finn Allen, Jimmy Neesham, and Ish Sodhi expected to lead the way.
MT20WC_2021_MATCH19_PAKvNZ_NZ_5.1_SOUTHEE_100_WICKETS
Fast bowler Will O’Rourke and hard-hitting batter Tim Robinson are also set to make their T20I debut, having impressed in domestic cricket in New Zealand.
Wells has high expectations for the duo should they be selected in Pakistan.
“Tim is still very early in his domestic career but his natural ability and explosive power was on full display this season,” Wells said. “Combined with his outstanding fielding, we believe he has a skill-set that’s well suited to the format.”
“We’ve been delighted with Will’s early efforts in international cricket, in both the formats he’s played so far. This tour will be an excellent chance for him to test his skills in foreign conditions.“
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New Zealand squad for Pakistan:
Michael Bracewell (c), 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
Tour schedule:
First T20I: April 18, Rawalpindi
Second T20I: April 20, Rawalpindi
Third T20I: April 21, Rawalpindi
Fourth T20I: April 25, Lahore
Fifth T20I: April 27, Lahore