New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Sunday announced a 15-member squad for the limited overs series against the West Indies in the Caribbean. The Black Caps are traveling to the Caribbean for the first time since 2014 and will be playing three T20Is and as many ODIs, with the T20I series starting from 11th of August at Sabina Park in Jamaica.
"It's always exciting to be heading somewhere you've not been in a while and I know this group can't wait for the challenge of taking on the West Indies in the Caribbean," New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said ahead of the West Indies white-ball tour.
"Managing workloads is hugely important this year with the team playing some form of cricket every month in 2022 - and this applies to both players and staff,” Stead added.
With the Kiwis playing six matches in 11 days across Jamaica and Barbados, NZC has decided to name a combined 15-player squad for both series.
Williamson, Boult return
Kane Williamson makes his return to lead the Black Caps in white ball cricket for the first time since last year’s T20 World Cup Final against Australia.
Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Devon Conway also made their return to the white ball squad.
Youngsters like Michael Bracewell and Finn Allen have retained their places on the back of good performances against Ireland.
"For Kane, Trent, Tim and Devon, this will be the first time they have played white ball cricket for New Zealand since last year's T20 World Cup and tour to India - so this trip will be important for them,” Stead added.
"We also have players such as Michael and Finn who are relatively new to the international stage but have really put their hands up for selection when given opportunities.
"As a selector it's been great to see these guys push their cases," he concluded.
The white-ball tour to the West Indies is going to be very important for New Zealand, as they prepare for the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia this October, and there are 30 ODI Super League points up for grabs in the lead up to the One Day World Cup in India next year.
New Zealand T20I and ODI Squad:
Kane Williamson (C), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee
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