The New Zealand cricket team has announced significant changes to their lineup for the highly anticipated T20I series against England. White-ball captain Mitchell Santner and dynamic all-rounder Rachin Ravindra are making their return, bolstering the squad. Meanwhile, star batsman Kane Williamson is aiming for a comeback during the subsequent One-Day International (ODI) leg of the tour.
The T20I action is set to kick off on October 18 at Hagley Oval, followed by three ODIs commencing October 26.
Mitchell Santner, having fully recovered from recent abdominal surgery, will lead the Blackcaps in the T20I series. Rachin Ravindra, who unfortunately missed the Australian series due to a facial injury, is also back in contention, ready to make an impact.
Cricket fans will be excited to see Kane Williamson back on the international stage. After a period overseas, Williamson is slated to rejoin the team for the ODI series against England, with his return match planned for his hometown of Tauranga.
However, the squad isn’t without its challenges. Wellington Firebirds fast-bowler Ben Sears will unfortunately miss the entire England series. He sustained a left-hamstring tear during training last week, an injury that will require an estimated three to four weeks for recovery.
In a strategic move, Jimmy Neesham has been named as the seam-bowling all-rounder, a selection that follows his impressive displays against Australia. The core pace-bowling unit remains consistent, featuring Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, and Kyle Jamieson.
The spin attack will see Michael Bracewell joining Santner, with Ish Sodhi missing out on selection this time. Tim Seifert will take on wicket-keeping duties for the T20 matches, forming part of the same batting lineup that recently competed against Australia.
NZ coach Rob Walter expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming matches. “Fresh from our series against Australia, it’s fantastic to welcome another world-class team to our shores,” Walter stated. “We’re well aware of the exciting brand of cricket Harry Brook and his T20 squad play, and I’m confident our players are eager to face that challenge head-on.”
Walter also highlighted the strong fan support. “It’s wonderful to hear that tickets for the first game at Hagley Oval are almost sold out. That promises a phenomenal atmosphere to kick off the series on Saturday night.”
Regarding player returns, Walter added, “Having Mitch back is a huge boost. As our captain, he’s among the world’s finest white-ball spinners, and his skills and experience will be invaluable. It’s equally pleasing to welcome back Rachin, who was unlucky to miss the Australia tour, and I know he’s incredibly keen for this series.”
Addressing Williamson’s staggered return, Walter explained, “Kane encountered a minor medical issue last month, and we collectively decided he needed more time to get back to full physical readiness. He is, of course, a world-class talent, and we’re hopeful these extra two weeks will ensure he’s perfectly prepared for the ODIs against England and the subsequent West Indies tour.”
On Sears’ injury, Walter concluded, “Ben experienced discomfort while bowling last Tuesday, and scans confirmed a hamstring tear, ruling him out of this series. We wish him a swift recovery and look forward to seeing him back in action soon.”
Several other key players were unavailable for selection due to various injuries, including Finn Allen (foot), Adam Milne (ankle), Will O’Rourke (back), Glenn Phillips (groin), and Lockie Ferguson (hamstring).
The New Zealand T20I squad includes: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, and Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper).