Tom Latham, who plays wicket-keeper and batsman for New Zealand, will miss the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan due to a broken right hand. New Zealand Cricket shared the news on Thursday, explaining that Latham got hurt while batting in the nets during practice this week. An X-ray showed he has a fracture that will need a cast and will keep him out for at least four weeks to rest and recover.
Gary Stead, the head coach, announced that Henry Nicholls will step in for Latham on the team. Michael Bracewell, who is the current T20 captain, will keep leading the team in the ODIs, while Mitch Hay will take over the wicket-keeping duties. Stead noted that Henry was in good form since coming back from a three-month injury break and that he brings valuable experience to the squad. Stead expressed disappointment about losing Tom, especially right before the series, and wished him a quick recovery. He reassured everyone that Michael is capable of leading, as he’s already shown by doing well in the T20 matches.
Nicholls brings quite a bit of experience with 78 ODI caps, but he hasn’t played much this season due to a calf injury he got back in November. He’s made a comeback recently with a string of strong performances, scoring over 50 runs in five out of six domestic innings since returning.
In another update, the selectors announced that opener Will Young will leave the ODI squad for the second and third games of the series. He’ll be away with his wife as they prepare for the birth of their first child. Young will still play in the opening game on Saturday in Napier before he steps back. To fill his spot, 23-year-old Rhys Mariu from Canterbury has received his first call-up as batting cover, which the New Zealand Cricket board confirmed.
Stead reflected on the challenges of the tour, mentioning how they’ve had to adjust due to several players being unavailable for various reasons. He also pointed out that while this can be tough, it opens up opportunities for other players to shine. He expressed excitement about welcoming Rhys to the team and having Henry back on board.
Finally, Stead sent his best wishes to Will and his wife Elise as they look forward to welcoming their new baby, noting how special this moment is for them. The squad came together in Napier on Thursday, gearing up for the first match this Saturday at McLean Park.