In a major blow to the New Zealand team, Tom Latham has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan after fracturing his right hand during training. Henry Nicholls has been named as his replacement in the 15-member squad. Latham, who was set to lead the team, was struck on his right hand while batting in the nets ahead of the series. A New Zealand Cricket (NZC) media release confirmed the fracture, requiring at least four weeks of rest.
Head coach Gary Stead confirmed that the in-form Nicholls would replace Latham, with Michael Bracewell stepping in as captain.
“It’s obviously disappointing to lose Tom as captain on the eve of the series and we wish him a speedy recovery,” Stead said. “The side is in safe hands with Michael who’s done a great job through the T20I series.”
The Kiwis are already missing key players such as Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Glenn Phillips. Adding to their woes, they have now lost another experienced campaigner in Tom Latham. His absence offers Henry Nicholls a golden opportunity to cement his place in the team.
The 33-year-old last featured in an ODI against Sri Lanka last year before a calf strain sidelined him for a while. He returned to domestic cricket earlier this month, where he impressed with four half-centuries and an unbeaten 171 for Canterbury.
In other news, opener Will Young will miss the second and third ODIs to be with his wife as they await the birth of their first child. He will play the series opener in Napier on Saturday before being replaced by uncapped Canterbury batter Rhys Mariu, who has earned his maiden call-up.