(Cricket News) In order to manage his workload ahead of the two-match Test series, Tim Southee will only play the first T20I. Trent Boult, a veteran pacer who last played a T20I in November 2022, is set to make his T20I comeback for New Zealand during the upcoming three-match series against Australia.
Josh Clarkson, an uncapped all-rounder, and Rachin Ravindra are also included in the 14-man squad. Daryl Mitchell, who is recovering from a foot injury, and Kane Williamson, who is away on paternity leave, were not available for selection.
“Josh hits the ball as long and as hard as anyone and we were encouraged by his performances with the ball in his maiden ODI series against Bangladesh before Christmas,” selector Sam Wells said.
“It is never ideal missing two of your best players for such a big series, but in saying that, we do have a lot of faith in the guys coming in.” Rachin and Josh were both in our white-ball squads this summer; it is really exciting for them to now get this opportunity.
“As Josh did, it is nice to have Ravin’s all-around skill set to call on in this team. His quality and class have been evident to all over the previous six months.” Michael Bracewell (finger injury) and Jimmy Neesham (Bangladesh Premier League) were also not eligible for selection.
New Zealand Squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Josh Clarkson, Trent Boult , Mark Chapman, Jake Clarkson, Devon Conway (wk), Glenn Phillips, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, and Tim Southee (game 1).
See also: Mark Wood Set to Rejoin England Squad for 3rd Test Match.
