New Zealand have revealed their 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. Fast bowlers Ben Sears and Will O’Rourke, along with all-rounder Nathan Smith, are among the new selections for the tournament.
Ben Sears, 26, is still waiting to make his ODI debut. However, he has already represented New Zealand in Test and T20 cricket. He is returning to the national team after being sidelined for a long time recovering from a knee injury. O’Rourke and Smith may not have a ton of experience over the age of 50, but they will add some valuable firepower to a pace attack led by the reliable Matt Henry and the fiery Lockie Ferguson.
New Zealand Bolster Spin Department
New Zealand they boosted their spin attack by Champions Trophy 2025 by bringing in the versatile Michael Bracewell. He will join the likes of Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindraand Mitchell Santner. Santner has also been named New Zealand’s captain for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
The team also includes key batsmen Kane Williamson, Tom Lathamand Devon Conway. However, Williamson and Conway face a busy schedule as they will take part in the SA20 before heading to Pakistan for the three pre-tournament series.
Head coach Gary Stead is confident in the balance of the squad
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed confidence in the balance and experience of the team.
“We are blessed with a lot of quality players at the moment and that has certainly led to some challenging selection discussions,” said Stead. “Ultimately, we have gone with the team that will offer us the best options to perform well in the expected conditions in Pakistan and the UAE.”
Stead also stressed the importance of the tri-series in Pakistan ahead of the Champions Trophy.
“The format of the tournament is unique in that you have to start from the field, which means that our preparation in the tri-series leading up to the lead is really important. It will be a great opportunity to open the tournament against the hosts Pakistan in Karachi and we can’t wait to get there and jam,” he added.
New Zealand are in a tough group alongside hosts Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. They will play their opening match against Pakistan on February 19 in Karachi.
New Zealand Squad for Champions Trophy and Pakistan Tri-Series: Mitchell Santner (capt), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young
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