New Zealand Cricket has made a significant decision for the upcoming ODI and T20 series against Sri Lanka, which is set to begin on November 9. Following Kane Williamson’s resignation from the captaincy, left-arm off-spinner Mitchell Santner has been handed the leadership role for the upcoming series.
Williamson had stepped down as captain after New Zealand’s early exit from the group stage of the T20 World Cup in June. For the upcoming series, the New Zealand Cricket Board has included all-rounder Nathan Smith and wicketkeeper-batter Mitch Hay in the 15-member squad.
Will Santner Only Be Captain for This Series?
According to available information, the New Zealand Cricket Board has decided to appoint Santner as captain specifically for the Sri Lanka tour. The selection of a permanent captain will be made during the upcoming domestic season.
Regarding the two young players, Nathan Smith was named Player of the Tournament in New Zealand’s domestic T20 and ODI seasons earlier this year, with his best bowling performance being 5 wickets for 14 runs. Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Mitch Hay was honored as Canterbury Men’s Player of the Year.
New Zealand Squad for the Series Against Sri Lanka.
The pace attack will feature Lockie Ferguson, Jacob Duffy, and Zak Foulkes, while the spin department will include captain Mitchell Santner and the experienced Ish Sodhi. All-rounders Glen Phillips, Michael Bracewell, and Dean Foxcroft are also part of the team.
The batting lineup will comprise Will Young, Mark Chapman, Henry Nicholls, Phillips, Tim Robinson, and Josh Clarkson.
It is important to note that Kane Williamson, Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, and Tim Southee are not part of this tour, as they will be included in the Test squad against England.
Series Schedule:
• First T20 – Saturday, November 9, Dambulla
• Second T20 – Sunday, November 10, Dambulla
• First ODI – Wednesday, November 13, Dambulla
• Second ODI – Sunday, November 17, Kandy
• Third ODI – Tuesday, November 19, Kandy
