• Source:JND
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Pacer Jacob Duffy has replaced Blaik Tickner in New Zealand's squad for the upcoming T20I series against UAE. Tickner was supposed to join the team on Monday in Dubai, but he will stay at home in Hawke's Bay to be with his wife and newborn daughter.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said it was important for Tickner to have this time at home with his young family.

“We’re a family environment and after speaking with Blair we fully support him being at home with Sarah and young Florence. The birth of a child is a special time and we’re glad to be able to support Blair in being at home," he said.

Stead backed Duffy's skills and experience to join the squad in the absence of Tickner.

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"Jacob’s been part of many Blackcaps squads in the past and has always acquitted himself well at international level. He’s got good skills and experience and we look forward to welcoming him into our squad in Dubai,” Stead said.

New Zealand's touring party is without their regular players including Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips and Ish Sodhi.

New Zealand ace batter Kane Williamson is currently recovering from the injury after undergoing surgery for a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament [ACL] in his right knee in April. The right-handed batter is hopeful to return to the squad for the ODI World Cup in India which start on October 5. However, he himself admitted the return in the marquee event to be a 'tough goal'.

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New Zealand squad: Tim Southee (c), Adi Ashok, Chad Bowes, Mark Chapman, Dane Cleaver, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Kyle Jamieson, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Jimmy Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert, Will Young.

The first T20I between UAE and New Zealand will be played at Dubai International Stadium on Thursday, August 17.