New Zealand have made several changes to their squad for the remaining three matches of the five-match T20I series against India. The changes are aimed at managing the workload of the fast bowlers ahead of the upcoming ODI series.
According to the New Zealand Cricket (NZC) website, Lockie Ferguson will miss the third T20I before returning for the final two matches. Matt Henry will stay back to prepare for the ODI series, while Blair Tickner has been added to the squad for the last three T20Is.
Matt Fisher will travel with the team to Wellington as pace cover for the third match only. He will then return to the New Zealand A squad.
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Kyle Jamieson To Play Third T20I
Kyle Jamieson will be available for the third T20I against India, scheduled to be played on Tuesday, October 27.
The fast bowler will also remain available for Canterbury’s second-round Ford Trophy match on October 31 before joining the Black Caps for the ODI series.
Meanwhile, Henry will remain in Christchurch before joining New Zealand’s ODI squad in Auckland on November 2. Tickner will feature in the final three T20Is, while Josh Clarkson will be available for selection for the last two matches.
Rob Walter Explains Squad Changes
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter said the team was making the most of its squad depth to manage the workload of its fast bowlers, with plenty of cricket still to come.
“It’s been a competitive start to the T20 series with two close games and plenty more cricket to come. We’re very fortunate with the depth in the squad to be able to call upon different players to help manage our pacers' workloads, and to try and ensure they’re best placed to perform for the team for all the cricket coming up,” Walter said, as quoted by the NZC website.
India Lead T20I Series 2-0
India have won the first two matches of the series, beating New Zealand by four wickets on both occasions in Christchurch. The hosts are now under pressure to win the third T20I and keep their hopes of winning the series alive.
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The third match will be played in Wellington on October 27, followed by the fourth T20I in Auckland on October 30. The fifth and final match is scheduled to take place in Hamilton on November 1.
The five-match ODI series between the two teams will follow the conclusion of the T20I series.