New Zealand batter Mark Chapman has been ruled out of the second ODI against Pakistan in Hamilton after scans confirmed a grade-one hamstring tear. He sustained the injury while fielding in the first ODI, where he had played a match-winning knock of 132. Tim Seifert has been drafted into the squad as Chapman’s replacement.
Chapman has traveled to Auckland for rehabilitation but is expected to rejoin the squad for the third and final ODI on April 5 in Mount Maunganui. This match will also mark the end of New Zealand’s international summer. Despite New Zealand’s policy of prioritizing contracted players, head coach Gary Stead emphasized Seifert’s recent form as the key reason for his inclusion. The wicketkeeper-batter declined a domestic contract with Northern Districts in July 2024 but was in excellent form during New Zealand’s 4-1 T20I series win over Pakistan, scoring 249 runs and earning Player of the Series honors.
If Seifert plays, it will be his first ODI appearance since January 2019, when he last featured against Sri Lanka. In his brief ODI career, he has played just three matches with a top score of 22 in two innings.
Stead acknowledged Chapman’s absence as a setback but remained optimistic about his return for the final ODI. He also praised Seifert’s recent performances, highlighting his experience and ability to strengthen the top order.
A victory in the second ODI will seal the series for New Zealand, marking their third ODI series win of the 2024/25 season. They previously won 2-1 against Sri Lanka at home and secured a tri-series victory in Pakistan.
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