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New Zealand have announced a second-string squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, which is scheduled to begin on September 21. In the series, Lockie Ferguson will step into the role of captain, marking his first time to lead the Blackcaps. This change in leadership comes as part of New Zealand’s strategy to rest several key players in preparation for the ICC Cricket World Cup in October-November in India.
New Zealand cricket team’s current schedule and future outlook
Currently, New Zealand are in England as part of their white-ball tour, which includes four T20Is and four ODIs, concluding on September 15. Following this, their tour of Bangladesh is set to commence on September 21. Notably, the two teams will also engage in two Test matches as part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle subsequent to the conclusion of the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Prominent players set to miss the ODI series
Kane Williamson is presently on the path to recovery from a knee injury. Meanwhile, Tom Latham, who has been commendably steering New Zealand in ODIs during Williamson’s absence, is in line for a well-deserved hiatus from the cricketing action.
Expanding upon this, a cluster of seasoned players, comprising Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner and Tim Southee, have also be granted a period of respite. This break is strategically timed to ensure they are in optimal form and fitness as they prepare for the imminent World Cup campaign.
Mark Chapman and Jimmy Neesham, both expecting the arrival of their first children, were excluded from selection as the tour coincided with their personal reasons.
Also READ: BCB announces schedule of New Zealand’s multi-format tour to Bangladesh
Newly appointed head coach for the series
An interesting development to note is that Blackcaps’ batting coach Luke Ronchi will step into the role of head coach for the tour of Bangladesh. This strategic move enables the regular head coach Gary Stead to shift his primary focus towards meticulous preparations for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup.
New additions and the return of an experienced veteran
The 15-member New Zealand squad for the Bangladesh series highlights a cadre of promising young talents poised to showcase their abilities in the challenging conditions that lie ahead. Within the assembly of emerging stars, all-rounder Dean Foxcroft has achieved a significant milestone by earning his maiden ODI call-up, signifying a notable progression in his cricketing career. Furthermore, the squad includes veteran paceman Trent Boult, whose commitment to New Zealand cricket remains unwavering, even though he declined a central contract.
New Zealand ODI squad for Bangladesh tour:
Lockie Ferguson (captain), Finn Allen, Chad Bowes, Will Young, Tom Blundell, Dean Foxcroft, Henry Nicholls, Rachin Ravindra, Cole McConchie, Dane Cleaver, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Ish Sodhi, Blair Tickner, Trent Boult.
