Tom Latham ruled out of Pakistan ODI series due to injury; All-rounder to captain New Zealand

New Zealand have suffered a major injury setback ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan at home. Captain and wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham has been ruled out of the series due to a fractured right hand, and all-rounder Michael Bracewell has been named as the stand-in captain.

Tom Latham was set to lead New Zealand in the ODI series against Pakistan, as Mitchell Santner opted to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, with Latham ruled out due to injury, the Black Caps have had to make changes. The first ODI of the series is set to take place on Saturday, March 29.

Tom Latham Ruled Out of Pakistan ODI Series Due to Injury

Tom Latham sustained a hand injury during a training session when he was struck by a delivery in the nets. An X-ray confirmed a fracture, and he has to wear a cast and undergo at least four weeks of rest and rehabilitation.

In Latham’s absence, Michael Bracewell, who previously captained New Zealand in their T20 series victory over Pakistan, will take over as skipper. Meanwhile, Mitch Hay will handle the wicketkeeping duties. Middle-order batter Henry Nicholls has been added to the squad as Latham’s replacement.

Henry Nicholls, who has played in 78 ODIs, last represented New Zealand in November against Sri Lanka. However, he missed most of the season due to a calf injury. Since his return this month, he has scored over 50 runs in five of his last six domestic matches.

Will Young Unavailable for Last Two Matches of Series

Will Young will only play the first ODI of the series in Napier. The opener will leave the squad to be with his wife as they await the birth of their first child.

23-year-old Canterbury batter Rhys Mariu has received his maiden international call-up. The Black Caps' ODI squad is set to assemble in Napier on Thursday in preparation for the opening match at McLean Park on Saturday.

Black Caps squad: Michael Bracewell (c), Muhammad Abbas, Adi Ashok, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Mitch Hay, Nick Kelly, Rhys Mariu, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Will Young.

Disappointing to Lose Tom Latham as Captain - Gary Stead

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment at losing Tom Latham as captain. Stead also said that the side is in safe hands with Michael Bracewell’s leadership. However, he stated that it is an opportunity for others to step up.

"It's obviously disappointing to lose Tom as captain on the eve of the series, and we wish him a speedy recovery. The side is in safe hands with Michael, who's done a great job through the T20I series," Stead said.

"We've had to be flexible this tour with numerous players unavailable for different reasons. What it does do is offer opportunities to other players, and it's nice to introduce Rhys into the environment for the first time, as well as welcome back Henry."

Also read: WPL to add new teams from next year? IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal clears BCCI's stance