Michael Bracewell to lead NZ against Pakistan in T20I series
What's the story
All-rounder Michael Bracewell is all set to lead New Zealand's T20I team for the first time at home.
He will be captaining the squad in a five-match series against Pakistan, starting on March 16.
This is an exciting chapter for Bracewell, who had previously captained the Black Caps during their overseas tour of Pakistan last year.
The upcoming series will feature a mix of returning players and new faces for New Zealand at home.
New leadership
Bracewell's captaincy debut in home series
Bracewell's home captaincy debut comes with a unique challenge.
The regular captain, Mitchell Santner, along with Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra are unavailable due to their IPL commitments.
Despite this setback, Bracewell remains optimistic about the series against Pakistan.
"It's a great honor and a real privilege to captain your country," he stated.
Captaincy journey
Bracewell's past experience and future aspirations
Bracewell's previous stint as captain against Pakistan last year, where the team played with a largely fringe squad, has prepared him for the series.
He said he was excited to lead New Zealand against 'dangerous' opponents Pakistan.
"I really enjoyed leading the side in Pakistan last year and we've got many players from that squad included for this series as well," he said.
Notably, NZ managed a 2-2 draw in Bracewell's maiden leadership assignment last year.
Captaincy goals
Bracewell's strategy and team spirit
Bracewell hopes to build on Santner's good work and create an enjoyable environment for his teammates.
He acknowledged the power and pace of Pakistan's short-form side, anticipating a competitive series.
"For the guys coming back from Dubai, there's obviously a level of disappointment, but also a lot of pride in the way we were able to perform and represent New Zealand," he said.
Team composition
Bracewell's squad for the T20I series
Bracewell will have the support of experienced players like Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, and Jimmy Neesham, who return to the fold after missing out on the previous series due to their participation in T20 leagues.
Veteran leggie Ish Sodhi has been recalled after missing out on the recent Sri Lanka series.
Pacer Ben Sears also returns after recovering from a hamstring injury that had ruled him out of the Champions Trophy.
Information
Here is NZ's squad
NZ T20I squad v Pakistan: Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes (games 4 & 5), Mitch Hay, Matt Henry (games 4 & 5), Kyle Jamieson (games 1, 2 & 3), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Will O'Rourke (games 1, 2 & 3), Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.