Fast bowler returns as New Zealand name ODI squad for Australia series
New Zealand named a 15-member ODI squad for the three ODIs in Cairns on September 6, 8th and 11th with Matt Henry returning from a rib injury.
Henry's addition is the only change from the squad that travelled to West Indies recently to win the ODI series, their first series victory in the format in Caribbean shores.
Ish Sodhi missed out on selection with Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell acting as spin-bowling all-rounders in the squad.
Our squad to take on Australia for the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy 🏏 The first of three ODI's starts on September 6 in Cairns.
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) August 24, 2022
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**New Zealand ODI squad:**Kane Williamson (c), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Tim Southee
“It’s a great rivalry we have with Australia; it’s always a huge occasion for the fans, and the team really look forward to it,” New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson, who returns to lead the side after missing the final two ODIs against West Indies, said.
“You grow up watching the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy series and remembering the great battles, so to be part of another chapter is pretty special.
Ten #CWCSL points in the bank and a series win away from home!
— ICC (@ICC) August 22, 2022
New Zealand were too good for the West Indies in Barbados đź‘Ź#WIvNZ scorecard: https://t.co/7vOIL1b1Lz pic.twitter.com/LWBOyjyvUL
“We know how tough Australia are to beat in their own conditions and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
Henry's return was expected after injury with the fast bowler having a good time on the tour to Europe recently before injury struck. Henry, who has 12 wickets in ODIs this year, is the highest wicket-taker for the Blackcaps in the format in 2022.
“It’s great to welcome back Matt [Henry]," head coach Gary Stead said. "He’s been one of our front line one-day bowlers for the past few years and his ICC ODI bowling ranking of six is testament to that.
Kyle Jamieson, who is nursing a back injury and Adam Milne, who is out with an achilles injury, weren’t considered for selection.
Ben Sears, who is yet to debut in ODIs, retained his place in the ODI squad.
“The inclusion of Ben Sears is a nod to the future, and we also think his pace and bounce could be a good option in Australian conditions," Stead said.
The three-match ODI series will be a part of the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League.