New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have unveiled their men’s T20I squads for the upcoming tours to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and England, with exciting prospects and notable comebacks making headlines. For the UAE tour, commencing on August 17 in Dubai, NZC have handed maiden call-ups to Dean Foxcroft and Adithya Ashok.
Foxcroft, an impressive batting allrounder, was crowned domestic player of the year at the NZC awards in March. He showcased his prowess by being the highest run-scorer in the Super Smash T20 competition, amassing an impressive 424 runs for Otago.
Similarly, leg-spinner Ashok, who previously represented New Zealand in the Under-19 World Cup, made a significant impact during his first-class debut in the 2022-23 season, where he bagged 19 wickets for Auckland in the Plunket Shield tournament.
In a much-awaited return, all-rounder Kyle Jamieson makes his way back to the squad after being sidelined since February due to back surgery. Jamieson’s inclusion adds depth and experience to the side, making him a key asset for the team.
While the UAE squad features a relatively second-string lineup, missing familiar names such as Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and Ish Sodhi. Although, these stars will return when the Black Caps embark on their England tour for the 4-match T20I series, set to commence on August 30.
Additionally, apart from Foxcroft and Ashok, five other players – Chad Bowes, Dane Cleaver, Cole McConchie, Henry Shipley, and Will Young – are also part of the touring party to England. However, they won’t be part of the T20I squad but will have an opportunity to showcase their talents in the two warm-up T20 matches against Worcestershire and Gloucestershire.
Despite being eagerly awaited by fans, the likes of Kane Williamson and Michael Bracewell won’t be available for selection due to injuries. Williamson is still recovering from a knee injury, while Bracewell is on the mend from an Achilles injury.
New Zealand’s T20I squad for UAE: Tim Southee (c), Adi Ashok, Chad Bowes, Mark Chapman, Dane Cleaver, Lockie Ferguson, Dean Foxcroft, Kyle Jamieson, Cole McConchie, Jimmy Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert, Henry Shipley, Will Young
New Zealand’s T20I squad for England: Tim Southee (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi
