Tom Latham Ruled Out of Pakistan ODIs, Bracewell to Lead New Zealand
New Zealand’s wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan after suffering a fractured right hand during training. Medical reports suggest that Latham will need at least four weeks to recover, forcing him to miss the series.
In his absence, Michael Bracewell will continue to captain the team. Bracewell, who recently led New Zealand to a 4-1 T20 series victory over Pakistan, had already taken over leadership duties due to Mitchell Santner’s involvement in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
To strengthen the squad, Henry Nicholls has been called up as a replacement. Nicholls, who recently recovered from a calf injury, has been in good domestic form with multiple half-centuries. Meanwhile, Mitch Hay is set to take on wicket-keeping responsibilities during the series.
The ODI series is scheduled to begin on March 29 in Napier. Additionally, New Zealand has added Rhys Mariu as a backup batter, while Will Young will be unavailable for the last two matches due to personal commitments.
Head coach Gary Stead has expressed confidence in Bracewell’s leadership, emphasizing that the team will adapt to these changes and remain competitive against Pakistan.