New Zealand have been dealt a blow ahead of their ODI series against Pakistan, with their captain Tom Latham ruled out of the three fixtures after sustaining a fractured hand during training. The experienced wicketkeeper-batter suffered the injury earlier this week, and scans confirmed the extent of the damage. Henry Nicholls has been drafted into the squad as a replacement, while Mitch Hay will take over wicketkeeping duties.
Michael Bracewell, who led the side in the recently concluded T20I series, will once again take charge in Tom Latham’s absence.
Latham was reportedly struck on his right hand during practice as he prepared for the series alongside his teammates, with the injury ruling him out entirely. His absence adds to the growing list of squad changes the Black Caps have undergone on this tour. Will Young will feature in the first game in Napier—his hometown—before withdrawing from the series to be with his family ahead of the birth of his first child. Replacing him is 23-year-old uncapped batter Rhys Mariu, who boasts an impressive first-class average of 61.73 and has earned his maiden international call-up.
The ODIs will feature a mix of experienced players and fresh faces for New Zealand, including Muhammad Abbas and Nick Kelly, who had previously earned maiden call-ups. With several regulars missing, this series presents a golden opportunity for young players to make a name for themselves at the international level.
New Zealand have already made a strong impression on this tour, securing a 4-1 victory in the T20I series against Pakistan.
With a reshuffled squad and a new captain at the helm, New Zealand will now shift focus to the ODI series, aiming to maintain their momentum against Pakistan