Micheal Bracewell to lead New Zealand in T20I series against Pakistan

All rounder Micheal Bracewell will lead New Zealand on their T20I tour of Pakistan which will also mark his return to international cricket after injury whereas uncapped batter Tom Robinson has earned a debut call up. 

Speedster Will O’Rourke, who made his Test and ODI debuts earlier this year, has also been included in the squad. 

Bracewell has been away from competitive cricket for almost a year. He last played for the black caps in March 2023 after which he ruptured right Achilles playing for Worcestershire in the T20 Blast in June followed by a broken finger.

He will captain a squad without nine players who are on Ind T20 League duty as well as Will Young, who is representing Nottinghamshire, Tom Latham awaiting the birth of his second child, and Tim Southee, who has been handed an extended period of conditioning after the home season. 

The tour will play a crucial role in confirming final spots in New Zealand’s T20 World Cup squad. 

“Michael has faced a long period on the sideline and it's exciting to see him back playing cricket again," selector Sam Wells said. "The fact he's back playing at a high level after an Achilles rupture is testament to his hard work and application.

"He's a well-respected leader and has captaincy experience for Wellington along with New Zealand A and New Zealand XI teams, which we believe holds him in good stead to lead the group in Pakistan."

Uncapped 21 year old Robinson has been shortlisted after becoming the second leading run scorer in the Super Smash with 298 runs at an average of 59.60 and a strike rate of 187.42, including a breezy 139 against Otago. 

Tim is still very early in his domestic career but his natural ability and explosive power was on full display this season," Wells said. "Combined with his outstanding fielding, we believe he has a skill-set that's well suited to the format.