New Zealand are going to play against Pakistan in a Twenty20 series; however, the Black Caps are having some serious injury issues before the start of the series.
The New Zealand squad looks weak on paper, as many of the players are set to miss this series due to IPL commitments. Now two more players are going to miss the series due to injury.
Pacer Adam Milne and opener Fin Allen are set to miss the series due to injuries. In an official statement, NZC said, “Allen suffered a back injury, and Milne had an ankle injury while training ahead of this evening’s departure. The nature of their respective injuries meant they wouldn’t be able to take part in any of the five-match series, due to start next week in Rawalpindi. Plans for their return to cricket will be confirmed in the coming weeks.”
NZC have named Tom Blundell and all-rounder Zak Floukes as their replacements. NZC said, “Foulkes joins a BLACKCAPS squad for the first time, while the experienced Blundell toured Pakistan last year and will provide solid cover in terms of wicket-keeping and top-order batting.”
New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, has requested support staff to work with players and get them back on the field.
Stead said, “We feel for both Finn and Adam, suffering injuries so close to the start of the tour. They have been strong performers for us in the T20 format since the last World Cup. Our support staff and medical networks will be working closely with both players over the next few weeks to complete plans for their treatment and subsequent return to cricket.”
New Zealand T20I squad vs. Pakistan:
Michael Bracewell (captain), Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Tom Blundell, and Zak Foulkes
