Ben Sears named in New Zealand's 15-man squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025, same squad to play tri-series in Pakistan

Published at :January 12, 2025 at 11:51 AM

Modified at :January 12, 2025 at 11:52 AM

(Courtesy : NZC)

Ben Sears is uncapped in ODIs but has played in the other two formats for New Zealand.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced their 15-player squad on Sunday, January 12, for the upcoming tri-series in Pakistan and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The Kiwis will tour Pakistan to compete in a tri-series against hosts Pakistan and South Africa ahead of the highly anticipated Champions Trophy, also to be hosted in Pakistan. The tri-series will help the Black Caps fine-tune their preparations ahead of the marquee tournament.

Mitchell Santner is set to lead New Zealand for the first time in a global tournament. The left-arm spinner will have solid support from test skipper Tom Latham and former all-format captain Kane Williamson.

The fast-bowling unit features the additions of Ben Sears and William O’Rourke, alongside all-rounder Nathan Smith. Meanwhile, Michael Bracewell and Mark Chapman have been included as spin-bowling all-rounders.

Sears has picked up 27 wickets across one test and 17 T20Is for New Zealand. Nathan Smith, meanwhile, has featured in seven international matches and will be eager to make an impact in the tournament.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead on ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad

Speaking to the media after the squad announcement, head coach Gary Stead mentioned that the team has been selected based on the conditions in Pakistan and Dubai, where they will play India. He also highlighted the squad’s vast international experience.

Stead said, “Ultimately, we’ve gone with the squad that will offer us the best options to perform well in the expected conditions in Pakistan and the UAE. We’re lucky to have a large chunk of the group with significant international and tournament experience to draw upon.“

New Zealand squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025:

Mitchell Santner (c), 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 and Will Young.

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