New Zealand announce squad for first two ODIs against Pakistan

New Zealand have been playing exceptional cricket in their ongoing series against the Windies. The Black Caps comprehensively clean-swept the visitors in the Test series. Thereafter, Kane Williamson’s men humbled the Caribbean team in the One-Day International series. Currently, the Kiwis are playing a T20I series against Carlos Braithwaite’s men.

After the series, New Zealand will host Pakistan for a 5-match ODI series which starts on the 6th of January at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. Meanwhile, the Black Caps have announced the squad for the first couple of ODIs against the Asian giants. Martin Guptill suffered a hamstring strain which sidelined him for the entire duration of the ODI series against the Windies.

A strong squad altogether

After the injury layoff, Guptill has made his way back to the ODI team for the first couple of games. George Worker, who played reasonably well against the Windies, unfortunately, couldn’t find a place in the squad. Nevertheless, Gavin Larsen, New Zealand’s national selector heaped praises on the left-handed batsman and also welcomed back Guptill to the squad.

“It’s tough on George missing out, but he’ll continue to push for selection and will get further opportunities down the road, “Martin is a proven world-class player, so we’re naturally thrilled to have him back in the mix. He and Colin [Munro] have been strong for us at the top of the order.” Larsen remarked.

Meanwhile, Colin de Grandhomme misses out on a spot in the team after missing the previous series due to his father’s sudden death. Todd Astle impressed in his debut ODI against the Windies and it has rightfully earned him a spot in the squad. He will partner left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner in the spin bowling department. Larsen also sounded confident with both the spinner’s presence in the squad.

“Todd made the most of his opportunity against the Windies and made a strong contribution with both bat and ball, “Mitchell has been one of our most consistent white-ball bowlers for a long time now, as can be seen by him being ranked in the top 10 ODI bowlers in the world. Conditions will dictate whether they play in the same eleven, but it’s certainly not out of the question.”

New Zealand squad for first two ODIs:

Kane Williamson (C), Todd Astle, Doug Bracewell, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Colin Munro, Henry Nicholls, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor.

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