Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson return as New Zealand name ODI squad for India series
New Zealand have announced a strong squad for their upcoming five-match ODI series against India, bringing back several familiar faces as they prepare for another competitive assignment against the Asian giants.
The ODI series will begin on November 4 at Eden Park in Auckland. New Zealand have opted for separate squads for the first three matches and the final two games, with captain Mitchell Santner set to lead both groups. The selection strategy also reflects the team’s preparations for the subsequent Test series against India.
Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert set for ODI comebacks
Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert are set to return to the ODI setup The return of this trio adds experience and fresh options to New Zealand’s white-ball setup for the latter stages of the series. All three players have been named in the squad for the fourth and fifth ODIs, giving them an opportunity to make an impact against India.
Allen and Ferguson last represented New Zealand in an ODI in 2023. Ferguson’s most recent appearance in the format came during the World Cup semi-final against India in Mumbai, making his return particularly notable ahead of another contest between the two sides.
Seifert, meanwhile, last played an ODI during New Zealand’s home series against Pakistan around 18 months ago. His inclusion provides another wicketkeeping option alongside Mitch Hay in the squad for the final two matches.
Rachin Ravindra included despite shoulder injury
Rachin Ravindra has been selected for the opening three ODIs despite being unavailable for the T20I series because of a shoulder injury. His inclusion provides a significant boost to New Zealand’s options for the initial phase of the 50-over contest.
The squad for the first three matches features several established names, including Devon Conway, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, etc part of the group, offering New Zealand multiple bowling options. New Zealand will look to build on their recent success against India in the ODI format. The team secured a historic 2-1 series victory on Indian soil in January, marking their first bilateral ODI series win against India in India.
However, the squad announcement also comes with injury concerns. Zak Foulkes, Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears have been ruled out of selection as they continue rehabilitation for hip flexor, calf and ankle injuries, respectively.
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The final two matches will feature seven additional players as New Zealand begin transitioning towards their Test preparations. Santner will continue as captain, while Kristian Clarke, Mitch Hay and others are among the players included for the closing fixtures.
Further, New Zealand are expected to announce their 14-player Test squad in early November, with the ODI series providing an important opportunity to assess their resources before the next phase of the India tour.
New Zealand Squad for India ODIs
First three games: Mitchell Santner (c), 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 games: Mitchell Santner (c), 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
