New Zealand announces squad for Pakistan T20 tour

WELLINGTON: New Zealand surprised by naming experienced all-rounder Michael Bracewell as their captain for this month’s five-match T20I series against Pakistan.

Bracewell has not played an international match since March last year and has only recently returned to domestic duties following injury concerns that have included a ruptured Achilles and a broken finger.

Pakistan host New Zealand for five Twenty20 internationals, starting in Rawalpindi on April 18, as both teams warm up for June’s T20 World Cup in the United States and the West Indies.

All-rounder Bracewell was named captain Wednesday on his return from more than a year out with a ruptured Achilles and broken finger in the absence of regular skipper Kane Williamson, who is playing for Gujarat Titans in the IPL.

Pakistan’s potential squad for T20 series against New Zealand

But with the likes of Kane Williamson and Mitchell Santner skipping the tour due to duties in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Bracewell earns a call-up to captain the Kiwis in the five-match series in Pakistan that will provide both teams quality practice ahead of June’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

New Zealand selector Sam Wells was thrilled to be able to welcome Bracewell back into the fold and has no doubt the 33-year-old can perform the role of captain with aplomb.

“Michael has faced a long period on the sideline and it’s exciting to see him back playing cricket again,” Wells said. “The fact he’s back playing at a high level after an Achilles rupture is testament to his hard work and application.

“He’s a well-respected leader and has captaincy experience for Wellington along with New Zealand A and New Zealand XI teams, which we believe holds him in good stead to lead the group in Pakistan.”

Bracewell will lead a youthful New Zealand side on the tour, with regulars Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Santner and Williamson all missing due to their playing commitments in the IPL.

Other first-choice players Will Young, Tim Southee, Colin Munro and Tim Latham are also missing for various reasons, with the likes of hard-hitting opener Finn Allen, experienced all-rounder Jimmy Neesham and veteran spinner Ish Sodhi expected to lead the way.