Tom Latham from New Zealand’s ODI squad has been ruled out of Pakistan ODIs due to a fracture to his hand. Latham suffered the injury during training this week and X-rays confirmed the extent of the damage.
MIchael Bracewll will captain the team as he did in the T20I series in his absence.
Mitch Hay will step in as the team’s wicketkeeper in place of Tom Latham.
Will Young will play only the first match in Napier before leaving to be with his wife as they prepare for the birth of their first child.
Rhys Mariu who is a talented 23-year-old batter with an impressive first-class average of 61.73 has received his first international call-up to cover for him.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead acknowledged the challenges of adjusting the squad but saw it as an opportunity for other players.
“We’ve had to be flexible this tour with several players unavailable for different reasons. But it’s exciting to bring Rhys into the team for the first time and to have Henry back. Henry’s been in great form since recovering from his injury, and he brings valuable experience.”
Stead also expressed disappointment over Latham’s injury saying:
“It’s tough to lose Tom right before the series, and we wish him a quick recovery. But Michael has done a great job leading the team in the T20I series, and we’re confident he’ll continue to do well.”
Finally, Stead wished Will Young and his wife Elise all the best as they prepare for this special moment in their lives.
یہ بھی پڑھیں: پاکستان نے آئی سی سی ویمنز ورلڈ کپ 2025 کے لیے سکواڈ کا اعلان کر دیا۔
