New Zealand call up Nick Kelly and Muhammad Abbas for the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan

New Zealand have called up the uncapped pair of Nick Kelly and Muhammad Abbas for the forthcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan at home. Kelly has been named in the squad on the back of an impressive showing in the domestic circuit where he has amassed over 1300 runs in the season across formats. 

The 31 year old is set to open the batting for the Black Caps in the series alongside Will Young in the absence of the regular duo of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra who are on Ind-T20 League duty. Abbas, who migrated to New Zealand from Pakistan, has been rewarded for doing well with both bat and ball in the Ford Trophy. 

Leg spinner Adi Ashok, who debuted against Bangladesh in December 2023 has been named in the squad as well. Only 8 players from the squad that played the Champions Trophy final earlier this month have been selected. Besides the group active in the Indian T20 League currently, Kane Williamson has also not been included after he made himself unavailable for the series. 

In the pace bowling department, Matt Henry remains on the sidelines as he continues his recovery from right shoulder and left knee issues. Kyle Jamieson’s workload is being looked after and consequently has been left out as well. In the absence of regular captain Mitchell Santner, Tom Latham will be at the helm. 

With a group of regular ODI players unavailable, we have a selected group of high-potential players who are now ready for opportunities at international level," said head selector Sam Wells. "With the next ODI pinnacle event still two and half years away, the series is a perfect opportunity to introduce, or re-introduce in the case of Adi, these players to international cricket now.

"Nick has been the standout domestic batsman the last few seasons. He is a dynamic stroke maker with power, and he can bat anywhere in the top six. Mo is one of our most promising young batters and he also provides a sixth bowling option which is required in the absence of Rachin (Ravindra) and Glenn (Phillips). It's nice to be welcoming Adi back into the group again after having a taste of international cricket a couple of years ago.

"His performances for Auckland have been impressive. His accuracy in the middle overs is a valuable skill set he can bring to the team and now is a good time to give him some more valuable international experience.

The opening ODI is slated to be held in Napier on March 29 before the sides travel to Hamilton for the next game in. Mount Maunganui will organise the third and final ODI on April 5. New Zealand have already drubbed Pakistan in the T20I leg, clinching the series with a game to spare.