New Zealand announce squad for Australia ODIs, Ben Sears included

New Zealand have announced their squad for the upcoming Chappell-Hadlee trophy against Australia, commencing on the 6th of September in Queensland. The Kiwis have bolstered their pace attack for the series in hopes of reclaiming the coveted trophy this year. 

Trent Boult, who shook the New Zealand board by withdrawing from the central contract earlier this month, retains his place in the squad following a captivating series against the Windies. The Blackcaps have included 23-year-old Ben Sears in the squad who is in line to make his ODI debut in the series, in addition to the rapid Lockie Ferguson.

Kiwi head coach Gary Stead shed a light on the young pacer’s selection and stated that the team is looking to take advantage of the pace and bounce on offer in Australia. He also welcomed back the six-ranked ODI bowler Matt Henry in the squad after recovering from a rib injury that saw him miss the Windies series.

“The inclusion of Ben Sears is a nod to the future, and we also think his pace and bounce could be a good option in Australian conditions. It’s great to welcome back Matt as well. He’s been one of our front line one-day bowlers for the past few years and his ICC ODI bowling ranking of six is testament to that.” head coach Gary Stead said. 

‘We know how tough Australia are to beat in their own conditions’ : Kane Williamson

Kane Williamson, the influential Kiwi skipper also marks his return to the squad after missing out on the last two ODIs against the Windies due to a quad issue. The elegant batter has had a torrid time with injuries, seeing him feature in just three ODIs since the conclusion of the 2019 World Cup. New Zealand’s last win over the Aussies in their backyard was 13 years ago but Williamson is looking forward to the challenge. 

“It’s always a huge occasion for the fans, and the team really look forward to it. You grow up watching the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy series and remembering the great battles, so to be part of another chapter is pretty special. We know how tough Australia are to beat in their own conditions and we’re looking forward to the challenge,” Williamson said.

New Zealand ODI squad: Kane Williamson (capt), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Tim Southee