New Zealand announce ODI and T20I squads for India series, Kane Williamson missing

New Zealand have officially announced their squads for the upcoming white-ball tour of India. The tour will include a three-match One Day International (ODI) series and a five-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series, starting from January 11. The New Zealand Cricket Board named 15 players each for both formats.

One of the biggest talking points from the squad announcement is the absence of Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s most experienced and popular batter. His name is missing from both the ODI and T20I squads for the India tour. Meanwhile, Jayden Lennox, a young domestic cricket performer, has received his first-ever international call-up, marking a major milestone in his career.

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter spoke highly of Jayden Lennox and said the team management has been watching him closely for some time. According to Walter, Lennox has shown strong performances in domestic white-ball cricket over the past few seasons and has also gained valuable experience while playing for New Zealand A.

The coach added that Lennox has been consistent, reliable, and confident in pressure situations, which made him a good choice for the India tour. The selectors believe this tour will help the youngster gain exposure at the international level and test his skills against a strong Indian team.

The squads also include several experienced players like Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Kyle Jamieson, and Michael Bracewell, who are expected to play key roles during the challenging Indian conditions.

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Why Kane Williamson is missing

Kane Williamson’s absence from the India series has raised many questions among fans. New Zealand Cricket has clearly stated that Williamson is unavailable due to his commitment in the SA20 league. He will be playing for the Durban Super Giants in the South Africa-based T20 tournament.

Initially, Williamson was not picked during the SA20 auction. However, he later joined the Durban Super Giants as a replacement player after Taijul Islam was ruled out. Because of this commitment, Williamson will not be available for national selection during the India tour.

Apart from Williamson, several other players are also missing from the ODI squad due to injuries and fitness issues. Nathan Smith has been ruled out due to a side injury, Blair Tickner is recovering from a shoulder problem, and Mark Chapman is dealing with an ankle injury. All three players are currently following their recovery and return-to-play plans.

While Chapman will miss the ODI series, New Zealand Cricket has indicated that he is likely to be available for the T20I matches. This gives the team some flexibility in the shorter format.

Fast bowler Ben Sears has also not been considered for the ODI squad. He recently returned from a stint in Melbourne and is still continuing his recovery program. However, officials said that Sears is making good progress and is expected to be fit for the domestic Super Smash tournament.

The squad selection reflects New Zealand’s focus on managing player workload and ensuring long-term fitness, especially with a busy international calendar ahead.

The ODI squad will be led by Michael Bracewell, who has been named captain for the series. The team features a mix of experienced players and fresh talent.

The squad includes:
Michael Bracewell (captain), Adi Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, and Will Young.

This squad is expected to rely heavily on all-rounders and pace bowlers, with players like Jamieson and Mitchell playing key roles.

T20I squad of New Zealand for India series

For the T20I series, Mitchell Santner will lead the side. The T20 squad includes some explosive batters and experienced bowlers suited for the shortest format.

The squad includes:
Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, and Ish Sodhi.

With players like Neesham, Phillips, and Ravindra, New Zealand will aim to bring balance and depth to both batting and bowling departments.