New Zealand have announced their squads for the upcoming five-match ODI series against India, but the preparations have suffered a setback with two key players ruled out due to injuries. Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra have both failed to recover in time for the 50-over assignment, forcing the selectors to make changes to their plans ahead of the series opener in Auckland on November 4.
The Black Caps will now have to manage their resources without the services of the injured duo, who also missed the recently concluded T20I series against India. New Zealand lost that contest 3-2 and will be looking to bounce back in the ODI leg under the leadership of Mitchell Santner.
Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra ruled out due to injuries
Chapman and Ravindra’s absence comes as a significant setback for New Zealand, considering their value to the team’s batting and all-round options. Both players have been undergoing rehabilitation but have not made sufficient progress to receive medical clearance for the upcoming series.
Chapman sustained an injury to his left hamstring while participating in the European T20 Premier League. According to New Zealand Cricket, a recent MRI scan indicated that the left-handed batter needs approximately two additional weeks of rehabilitation before he can regain full fitness.
Ravindra, meanwhile, has been recovering from a dislocated right shoulder. The injury occurred during a promotional shoot in an unusual incident, and the all-rounder requires more time before he can return to full-fielding duties. With neither player available, New Zealand have had to adjust their squad composition across the five matches. Their absence will also provide opportunities for other players to establish themselves during the India series.
Tim Seifert, Henry Nicholls and Dean Foxcroft included
Wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert has received an extended opportunity after initially being selected for only the final two ODIs. He has now been included in the squad for the first three matches as well, making him available throughout the series. Left-handed batter Henry Nicholls has also been added to the group for the opening three encounters. Meanwhile, all-rounder Dean Foxcroft will join the squad for the final two ODIs, offering another option during the latter part of the series.
Fast bowler Matt Fisher has similarly been brought into the squad for the first three matches after initially being named only for the final two games. New Zealand’s selection has therefore been divided into two groups, with some personnel changes between the opening and closing stages of the series.
Matt Henry’s fitness remains a concern ahead of series opener
Another player whose availability remains uncertain is experienced fast bowler Matt Henry. The pacer missed New Zealand’s final three T20Is against India after sustaining a low-grade tear in his right quadricep. Henry is expected to join the ODI squad on Monday, November 2. However, his participation will depend on how he progresses, with his match readiness scheduled to be assessed after his arrival. Santner will captain the squad for both groups.
New Zealand squad for first three ODIs: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham (wicketkeeper), Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert, Nathan Smith, Will Young and Blair Tickner.
New Zealand squad for final two ODIs: Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Lockie Ferguson, Mitchell Hay (wicketkeeper), Nick Kelly, Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Blair Tickner and Will Young.
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