Our Gateway to Insightful Blogging Exploring Ideas, Sharing Knowledge, Inspiring Minds
Related Articles
New Zealand has announced its squad for the upcoming T20I and ODI series against Sri Lanka, which will begin on December 28, 2024. The series will include three T20Is and three ODIs, marking an essential preparatory step for the team ahead of the Champions Trophy in January 2025.
Bevon Jacobs Earns Maiden Call-Up
Auckland Aces’ power-hitter Bevon Jacobs earned his first New Zealand international call-up. The 22-year-old caught the selectors’ attention with his explosive batting during last year’s Super Smash, where he smashed 134 runs in just six innings at a phenomenal strike rate of 188.73 while representing Canterbury Kings.
Bevon Jacobs, a rising star from Auckland Aces, has earned his maiden international call-up for New Zealand in the T20I series against Sri Lanka.
Known for his explosive batting, Jacobs made a mark in the domestic Super Smash tournament, scoring 134 runs in six innings at an extraordinary strike rate of 188.73 as a finisher for Canterbury Kings.
His recent 16-ball 39 for New Zealand XI in a warm-up match against Sri Lanka further showcased his potential, earning him a spot in the national team.
Recently, Jacobs impressed further with a fiery 16-ball 39 for the New Zealand XI in a warm-up match against Sri Lanka. His remarkable domestic performances also led to his selection by Mumbai Indians in the mega IPL auction earlier this year.
“It’s obviously an exciting time for Bevon and his family,” said New Zealand selector Sam Wells. He’s a promising player with a lot of talent. We’re looking forward to exposing him to international cricket. He’s got incredible power with the bat and has shown adaptability in longer formats, too.
Key Players Return to Action
Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, and Matt Henry return to the squad after missing the tour to Sri Lanka last month as they prepared for New Zealand’s Test series against England. Their presence will provide much-needed experience and depth to the team across both formats, including the Aviator app.
Mitchell Santner’s First Series as Full-Time White-Ball Captain
This series will be a significant milestone for Mitchell Santner as it will be his first assignment as New Zealand’s full-time white-ball captain. Santner, who has been a consistent performer for the team, will lead a squad filled with a mix of experienced players and emerging talents.
Zac Foulkes, Mitch Hay, and Tim Robinson to Feature in Home Series
Zac Foulkes, Mitch Hay, and Tim Robinson, who made their white-ball debuts on away tours earlier this year, are set to play in front of their home crowd for the first time. Mitch Hay, in particular, is coming off a record-breaking performance in Sri Lanka.
In the first T20I in Dambulla, Hay set a men’s record for most dismissals in an innings with five catches and one stumping. He also contributed with the bat, scoring 49 runs in the second ODI in Pallekele. Hay will don the keeping gloves during the T20Is, while in the ODIs, he will serve as a batting and keeping backup to Tom Latham.
ODI Preparations Ahead of the Champions Trophy
The ODI series holds special significance as it will be New Zealand’s final opportunity to fine-tune their squad before the Champions Trophy in January 2025. Tom Latham, Will O’Rourke, and Will Young will join the team for the ODIs, replacing T20I-only players Bevon Jacobs, Zac Foulkes, and Tim Robinson.
Workload Management for Will O’Rourke
Pacer Will O’Rourke, a consistent performer across formats, has been rested for the T20I series to manage his workload. O’Rourke has recently participated in eight Tests against Sri Lanka, England, and India, and the team management aims to keep him fresh for future assignments.
Coaching Setup for the Series
The former keeper-batter, Luke Ronchi, will take charge as the head coach for this series. Ronchi steps in as Gary Stead, New Zealand’s regular head coach, takes a well-earned break after an extended period at the helm.
Complete New Zealand Squad
T20I Squad
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Michael Bracewell
- Mark Chapman
- Jacob Duffy
- Zac Foulkes
- Mitch Hay
- Matt Henry
- Bevon Jacobs
- Glenn Phillips
- Rachin Ravindra
- Tim Robinson
- Nathan Smith
ODI Squad
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Michael Bracewell
- Mark Chapman
- Jacob Duffy
- Mitch Hay
- Matt Henry
- Tom Latham
- Daryl Mitchell
- Glenn Phillips
- Rachin Ravindra
- Nathan Smith
- Will O’Rourke
- Will Young
To read more blog: Online Cricket ID: Your online cricket ID for all sports betting
This series against Sri Lanka promises exciting cricket, with a balanced mix of young talent and experienced campaigners. Fans will be keen to see how New Zealand performs under Mitchell Santner’s new leadership and how debutant Bevon Jacobs fares on the international stage.
