The New Zealand selectors have announced a split squad for the upcoming five-match ODI series against India, with some players heading to Wellington—the venue for the first Test—after the third ODI to prepare for the Test series. This means seven players will join the squad for the final two ODIs, bringing the total number of players involved in the series to 21.
“Zak Foulkes (hip flexor), Will O’Rourke (calf), and Ben Sears (ankle) were not considered for selection as they continue their rehabilitation,” an NZC release stated.
Allen and Ferguson last featured in ODIs in late 2023—Allen just before the ODI World Cup and Ferguson during the tournament itself.
“Head coach Rob Walter will be supported by bowling coach Jacob Oram and departing batting coach Luke Ronchi, who is set to take over as head coach of the Melbourne Renegades in the Australian Big Bash League. Ronchi, Oram, and strength and conditioning coach Chris Donaldson will relocate to Wellington after the third ODI to begin Test preparation, joined by newly appointed BLACKCAPS batting coach BJ Watling,” the release added.
Walter, along with Northern Districts’ strength and conditioning coach Corey Miles, will stay with the ODI squad for the final two matches, with additional coaching support to be named shortly by NZC.
“Firstly, this is a significant series for us, playing in front of our home crowd in full stadiums against a strong Indian team,” Walter commented. “With the ODI World Cup just a year away, these games are crucial preparation.”
“Including seven new players for the closing ODIs gives us an opportunity to assess our squad depth against elite opposition.”
“Every Test match counts toward championship points, which is why we’re moving part of the squad early to gain extra preparation before the first Test against India at the Basin Reserve on November 19,” he added.
Newly contracted Black Caps Matt Fisher and Nick Kelly have been added to the squad for the final two ODIs. Mitch Hay and Tim Seifert are among the wicketkeeping options for those matches following Test captain Tom Latham’s withdrawal to focus on the Test series.
New Zealand ODI squads for India series
First three ODIs: Mitchell Santner (capt), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Will Young, Blair Tickner
Last two ODIs: Mitchell Santner (capt), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Lockie Ferguson, Mitch Hay (wk), Nick Kelly, Tim Seifert (wk), Blair Tickner, Will Young