New Zealand announces 15-member squad for ODIs against Australia

New Zealand have announced their squad for the ODI series against Australia starting from September 6 in Queensland. The Kiwis have picked a full-pack squad in hopes to reclaim the Chappell- Hadlee trophy this year.

Trent Boult who has recently withdrawn from the central contract earlier this month has retained his place in the squad after a successful outing against the West Indies.

Boult was the highest wicket-taker in the 3-match ODI series in the Caribbean. The Blackcaps have also picked 23-year-old Ben Sears in the squad who will be eyeing his ODI debut in the series, with Lockie Ferguson alongside in the squad. 

NZ Head Coach Gary Stead has justified the pacer’s selection and said that the team is looking to take advantage of the pace and bounce he may get in Australian conditions.

Pace bowler Matt Henry also makes a comeback and has been selected in the squad. Henry who is the 6th ranked ODI bowler missed the Windies tour due to a rib injury.

“The inclusion of Ben Sears is a nod to the future, and we also think his pace and bounce could be a good option in Australian conditions. It’s great to welcome back Matt as well. He’s been one of our front line one-day bowlers for the past few years and his ICC ODI bowling ranking of six is testament to that,” head coach Gary Stead stated.

Skipper Kane Williamson who missed out on the last two ODIs against West Indies also makes his return to the squad. The right-hand batter has been suffering many exclusions due to injuries as he has featured in just three ODIs since the 2019 World Cup.

Williamson, however, is looking forward to the series and is focused towards moistening the 13-year ODI win drought against Australia in their backyard. 

“It’s always a huge occasion for the fans, and the team really look forward to it. You grow up watching the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy series and remembering the great battles, so to be part of another chapter is pretty special. We know how tough Australia are to beat in their own conditions and we’re looking forward to the challenge,” Williamson said.

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