Lister Enters NZ ODI Squad Amid West Indies Series Preparations

Ben Sears has been forced to withdraw from the upcoming five-ODI series against the West Indies due to a recurring ankle injury that flared during New Zealand’s Test match against England at Trent Bridge. The all-rounder had been managing persistent discomfort since the series-opening Test against Ireland in May but was ultimately unable to continue after the injury worsened during the third Test’s final day. Cricket New Zealand deemed his absence “precautionary” to ensure proper recovery, with Sears flying home for targeted treatment.

Ben Lister, who debuted in ODIs last year with six wickets across four matches, has been added to the 16-man squad. The right-arm bowler will join the team in Guyana ahead of the first three fixtures on July 11, 13, and 16, following an ankle injury that has limited his recent appearances. His inclusion adds depth to New Zealand’s pace attack, which also features Jacob Duffy (returning from paternity leave), Nathaniel Smith, Kristian Clarke, and Matt Fisher. Frontline spinner Mitchell Santner captains the side, supported by Michael Bracewell, Jayden Lennox, and returning off-spinner Daryl Mitchell. Fast bowlers Will O’Rourke, Kyle Jamieson, and Matt Henry have been rested to recover from heavy workloads during the England Test series.

Head selector Gavin Larsen emphasized workload management following “significant attrition” after the Test series, with four bowlers now sidelined due to injuries or surgeries. Blair Tickner is also unavailable for the West Indies ODIs as he undergoes ankle surgery. The revised squad includes senior safety-net options like Dean Foxcroft, Tom Latham (wicketkeeper), and Mark Chapman, ensuring balance in both batting and fielding roles.

The full touring party features 19 players, with the final two ODIs scheduled for July 19 and 21 at Kensington Oval, Barbados. Lister’s timely call-up underscores New Zealand’s strategy of maintaining a competitive rotation in one-day formats while prioritizing bowler durability post-Test exertions.

New Zealand squad for ODI series in the West Indies

Mitchell Santner (capt), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matthew Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Mitchell Hay (wk), Nick Kelly, Tom Latham (wk), Jayden Lennox, Ben Lister, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Nathan Smith, Will Young

Source link