New Zealand suffered a setback ahead of their three-match ODI series against Pakistan after captain Tom Latham was ruled out due to a hand injury sustained during training. Latham, who had been expected to lead the team, fractured his hand and will require a cast and at least four weeks of rest and rehabilitation. In his absence, Henry Nicholls has been named as his replacement.

Changes to the Squad

The New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed that Latham’s injury required last-minute changes to the squad. Henry Nicholls, who had been sidelined for three months due to injury, is returning to the team after impressing in domestic cricket. Nicholls scored five fifty-plus scores in six innings, showcasing his form. Meanwhile, Michael Bracewell, who had captained the Black Caps in the T20I series, will continue as captain for the ODI series after leading the team to a 4-1 series win in the T20Is.

“We’ve had to be flexible this tour with numerous players unavailable for different reasons,” said Gary Stead, New Zealand’s head coach. “Losing Tom as captain just before the series is disappointing, but we are confident in Michael’s leadership and Henry’s return to the squad.”

Absence of Key Players

Apart from Latham’s injury, Will Young, the India Test series hero, will be absent for the final two ODIs due to personal reasons—he is set to become a father. In response, Rhys Mariu, a Canterbury batter, has received a maiden call-up to the squad as Young’s replacement. The call-up gives Mariu the chance to experience international cricket for the first time.

Wicketkeeping Duties

In Latham’s absence, Mitch Hay will take over the wicketkeeping duties. Nick Kelly and Muhammad Abbas are named as potential debutants for the series. Despite the changes, the rest of the squad remains the same, with a mix of experienced and fresh faces.

Full New Zealand ODI Squad for Pakistan Series:

• Captain: Michael Bracewell

• Players: Muhammad Abbas, Adi Ashok, Henry Nicholls, Mark Chapman, Rhys Mariu, Jacob Duffy, Mitch Hay, Nick Kelly, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Will Young (only for the 1st match)

Impact on the Series

The three-match ODI series between New Zealand and Pakistan will begin on Saturday, March 29, in Napier. With several key players unavailable for various reasons, New Zealand will need to rely on their bench strength to face Pakistan. The flexibility shown by the team and the call-ups of players like Rhys Mariu demonstrate New Zealand's determination to keep the squad balanced and competitive despite the challenges.

The Road Ahead

As New Zealand adapts to these changes, the performance of Henry Nicholls and Michael Bracewell will be critical to their success. The absence of Latham, along with the last-minute reshuffling, places added pressure on the team, but it also offers opportunities for others to prove their mettle. This series will be a true test of New Zealand's depth and resilience, particularly with the challenges posed by their IPL commitments and injuries.

Conclusion

With Tom Latham ruled out, Henry Nicholls stepping in as captain, and several key players unavailable, New Zealand faces a challenging ODI series against Pakistan. The flexibility and depth of the squad will be crucial in navigating these changes, and the team will look to build on its recent T20I success to carry momentum into the 50-over format.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Arisinfra Solutions Limited, Infonative Solutions Limited,Spinaroo Commercial Limited,Aten Papers & Foam Limited.

The Current active IPO are Retaggio Industries Limited,Identixweb Limited, ATC Energies System Limited, Shri Ahimsa Naturals Limited.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.