The tenth edition of the T20 World Cup is set to begin next February, and ahead of the tournament, teams have already started finalising their squads. In preparation for the last series before the World Cup, New Zealand has announced its squad.
All-rounder Nathan Smith has been included in the 14-member squad. A strong performance in the upcoming series against the West Indies could pave the way for the Wellington-based all-rounder to secure a spot in the World Cup team.
Following the West Indies series, New Zealand head coach Rob Walter is expected to announce the preliminary squad for the World Cup. Smith has already made his One Day International (ODI) debut for New Zealand, having played 13 ODIs so far.
Speaking highly of Smith, coach Walter said, “Nathan has started his international career strongly in both Tests and ODIs. We hope he continues that form in this series.”
Another all-rounder, pace bowler Kyle Jamieson, has returned to the squad after recovering from a side strain, which had ruled him out of the ODI series against England.
Additionally, leg-spinner Ish Sodhi has returned to the T20 side following his participation in the series against Australia earlier in October.
Pacer Matt Henry has been rested by the coaching staff to ensure he is fresh and prepared for the upcoming ODI and Test series following this T20 series.
Due to injuries, Finn Allen (foot), Lockie Ferguson (hamstring), Adam Milne (knee), Glenn Phillips (groin), and Ben Sears (hamstring) have not been included in the squad.
New Zealand will play their first T20 match of the series against the West Indies in Auckland on Wednesday.