Bracewell to Lead New Zealand in Home T20I Series Against Pakistan

Allrounder Michael Bracewell will captain a revamped New Zealand squad for the five-match T20I series against Pakistan, starting March 16. With several players unavailable due to IPL commitments, the selectors have included seven members of New Zealand’s silver-medal-winning Champions Trophy squad.

Bracewell’s Second Stint as Captain

This will be Bracewell’s second series as New Zealand captain, having previously led the team on the Pakistan tour in April 2024. He acknowledged Mitch Santner’s contributions as white-ball captain and aims to build on that foundation. Bracewell expects a tough contest, given Pakistan’s firepower in short-format cricket.

Key Inclusions and Injury Updates

Fast bowler Ben Sears returns after recovering from a hamstring injury, while Ish Sodhi is back after missing the Sri Lanka series. Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke will feature in the first three games as selectors manage their workloads post-Champions Trophy. Matt Henry is recovering from a shoulder injury and will play the last two T20Is if he proves his fitness.

Finn Allen, James Neesham, and Tim Seifert have also been included, with all three available for the build-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup. Daryl Mitchell and Mark Chapman will take on more responsibility with the bat as Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Glenn Phillips are unavailable due to the IPL. Lockie Ferguson and Mitch Santner will also miss the series, while Kane Williamson opted out due to PSL commitments with Karachi Kings from April 11.

From the Sri Lanka series, top-order batter Tim Robinson, wicketkeeper Mitchell Hay, and fast bowler Zakary Foulkes (last two games only) retain their places.

Building Towards the 2026 T20 World Cup

Selector Sam Wells said the team is preparing for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. Since half the squad returns from the Champions Trophy just days before the series, the management will carefully handle player workloads.

Each match will be a double-header, featuring New Zealand Women playing Sri Lanka or Australia at the same venue.