Both fast bowler Adam Milne and opener Finn Allen will not be playing in the forthcoming tour of Pakistan, New Zealand Cricket said on Friday, April 12. Just before the squad was supposed to leave, Milne hurt his ankle during training, while Allen sustained a back ailment.
“The nature of their respective injuries meant they wouldn’t be able to take part in any of the five match series, due to start next week in Rawalpindi,” the New Zealand Cricket stated in a statement. “Plans for their return to cricket will be confirmed in the coming weeks.”
As substitutes, New Zealand has selected all-arounder Zak Foulkes, who is yet to receive a cap, and wicketkeeper Tom Blundell. Many of New Zealand’s first-choice players are presently playing in the Indian Premier League, thus they have already selected a backup team for the series. Foulkes has been called up for the first time, while Blundell hasn’t played T20Is for New Zealand in over two years.
“Tom is a highly experienced player and along with his wicketkeeping and batting skillsets is a leader in any group he is a part of,” Gary Stead, the head coach, stated. Additionally, he has recent experience with the conditions, having participated in both of last year’s excursions to Pakistan. Zak has been Canterbury’s top wicket taker in all three competitions during his stellar season. He has proven to have excellent ball skills, especially when playing T20 cricket for the Kings. We are also aware of his bat skills, so this will be a great chance for him to join the team.”
All-rounder Michael Bracewell will make his comeback in this series, which begins on April 18 and ends on April 27 with the fifth and final Twenty20 International.
