New Zealand have suffered a major blow ahead of their three-match ODI series against Pakistan, with experienced batter and stand-in skipper Tom Latham ruled out due to a fractured hand sustained during training. The injury was confirmed following an x-ray, forcing the Black Caps to make late changes to the squad.
Latham was slated to lead the side in the absence of regular white-ball captain Mitchell Santner, who is currently engaged in domestic T20 duties. With Latham sidelined, Michael Bracewell will take over captaincy responsibilities, having recently led the team to a T20I series victory against Pakistan.
In response to the injury, Henry Nicholls has been called up as a direct replacement for Latham, marking his return to international cricket after a three-month injury layoff. Additionally, uncapped batter Rhys Mariu joins the squad as batting cover, offering a fresh face to the New Zealand setup. Will Young, who featured in the first ODI, has exited the squad ahead of the birth of his second child.
Mitch Hay will take over wicketkeeping duties in Latham’s absence, while Bracewell’s extended captaincy role presents another leadership opportunity in the 50-over format.
Head coach Gary Stead acknowledged the disruptions but remained optimistic. “We’ve had to be flexible this tour with numerous players unavailable for different reasons,” said Stead. “What it does do is offer opportunities to others and it’s nice to introduce Rhys into the environment for the first time, as well as welcome back Henry.”
He added, “It’s obviously disappointing to lose Tom as captain on the eve of the series and we wish him a speedy recovery. The side is in safe hands with Michael who’s done a great job through the T20I series.”
The three-match ODI series between New Zealand and Pakistan begins on Saturday in Napier.
