Auckland, July 1: Following their Test series victory against England at home, the New Zealand cricket team is set to embark on a tour of the West Indies for a five-match ODI series. The 16-member squad has been announced, featuring Matthew Fisher as a new face.
The ODI series will take place from July 12 to July 22, with Mitchell Santner appointed as the captain. Tom Latham, the Test team captain, will serve as the wicketkeeper. The right-arm fast bowler Matthew Fisher, 28, boasts an impressive List A record, having taken 32 wickets in 35 matches. He is also a valuable lower-order batsman. Jacob Duffy has also been included in the squad, alongside fast bowlers Christian Clark, Ben Sears, and Nathan Smith. The spin department will feature Michael Bracewell, Jaden Lennox, and Dean Foxcroft.
Head coach Rob Walter expressed enthusiasm about Fisher and Duffy joining the team, stating, “It’s great to have Jacob and Matt in the group, and I know they will bring a lot of energy and excitement. They have earned this opportunity by consistently improving their all-round skill sets.”
He added, “This is a great chance to include Matt in the ODI group for the first time. He bowls with good pace and is working hard on his variations to ensure he can bowl at different stages of the innings.”
Walter praised Duffy’s impact across all formats and expressed confidence that the experienced fast bowler would strengthen the team. “Jacob has been exceptional for us in all formats over the past few years. His skills and experience will be a fantastic addition to our squad. I know he is eager to represent New Zealand again.”
Several regular players will not be available for this tour. Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, and Will O’Rourke have been rested. Devon Conway has been granted leave due to the birth of his second child. Rachin Ravindra will not participate in this tour as part of a pre-arranged agreement with New Zealand Cricket to take part in Major League Cricket.
The New Zealand squad for the West Indies tour includes: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Christian Clark, Jacob Duffy, Matthew Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay, Nick Kelly, Tom Latham, Jaden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, and Will Young.
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