Tom Latham ruled out of Pakistan ODIs after fracturing hand
What's the story
New Zealand's wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan after fracturing his right hand. The injury took place during a training session earlier this week when he was batting in the nets. An X-ray later confirmed the fracture, forcing Latham to wear a cast and undergo "at least four weeks of rest and rehabilitation," New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said.
New captain
Michael Bracewell to lead in Latham's absence
Henry Nicholls has been called up as Latham's replacement for the ODI series against Pakistan. Meanwhile, T20I captain Michael Bracewell will now lead the ODI side in Latham's absence. Latham was initially set to captain the team replacing Mitchell Santner who is currently participating in the Indian Premier League.
Player update
Will Young to miss ODIs for personal reasons
Apart from Latham's injury, opener Will Young will also miss the second and third ODIs. He is taking time off to be with his wife as they await the birth of their first child. Young will play the series opener in Napier on Saturday before being replaced by uncapped Canterbury batter Rhys Mariu who has received his maiden call-up.
Coach's perspective
Gary Stead expresses confidence in team's adaptability
Head coach Gary Stead was confident that the team would adapt to these changes. He saw this as an opportunity for other players to step up. "We've had to be flexible this tour with numerous players unavailable for different reasons," Stead said. "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."
T20Is
NZ tame Pakistan in 5th T20I, win series 4-1
New Zealand tamed hapless Pakistan in the 5th and final T20I of the 5-match series on Wednesday. The match played at Sky Stadium in Wellington, saw the visitors get restricted to 128/9. James Neesham took a fifer whereas Salman Agha posted a fighting fifty. In response, Tim Seifert's whirlwind knock of 97* helped the hosts complete run-chase in no time. NZ won the T20I series 4-1.