Christchurch 24 August : New Zealand on Wednesday announced a 15-member team for the ODI series of three matches against Australia beginning on Sept.6 in Cairns, with fast bowler Matt Henry making a comeback after recovering from a injured rib.Henry’s inclusion is the sole change to the squad, who took home the first New Zealand one-day series victory in the West Indies earlier this week, with spinner Ish Sodhi being substituted.With Sodhi not being selected, Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell will fill the roles of spin bowling all-rounders in the team.
Kane Williamson, resuming the captaincy after being absent for the final two matches against West Indies in Barbados, said that the team couldn’t wait to cross the Tasman.
“It’s an amazing rivalry that we share with Australia It’s an exciting event for supporters, and also the players really enjoy this,” said Williamson.
“You are a child watching the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy Series and reminiscing about the great battles and being a the protagonist of an additional chapter of the series is unique.We’re aware of how difficult Australia is to defeat in their own environment and we’re looking forward the new challenge,” he added.
Henry’s return was anticipated after an injury with the fast bowler having a great time during his tour of Europe just before he was hit by injury.Henry is a pacer who has taken 12 wickets in ODIs this year is the top wicket-taker for the Blackcaps in the format in 2022.
“It’s wonderful to be able to welcome back Matt Henry.He’s been one of our leading one-day bowlers for the last several years and his ICC bowling ODI ranking of six is a testament to the fact,” head coach Gary Stead said.
Kyle Jamieson, who is recovering from a back injury, as well as Adam Milne, who is out with an Achilles injury, were not selected for the squad.Ben Sears, who was selected for the Caribbean tour to replace injured Henry and has yet to make his debut in ODIs, has retained his spot in the ODI team.
“The presence of Ben Sears is a reference to the future and we believe that his speed and bounce might be a great alternative in Australian conditions.” Stead said.
The three-match ODI series, which will be played between September 6, 8 and 11, will form part of the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League.
New Zealand ODI squad: Kane Williamson (c), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Tim Southee
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