New Zealand announces 2025 Champions Trophy team

New Zealand have revealed their 15-player 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 hoping to make his ODI debut. However, he has already represented New Zealand in Test and T20 cricket. He returns to the national team after spending a lot of time on the sidelines recovering from a knee injury. O’Rourke and Smith may not have much over-50 experience, but they will add valuable firepower to a pace attack anchored by the reliable Matt Henry and the fiery Lockie Ferguson.

New Zealand Reinforcement Spinning Department

New Zealand have strengthened their spin attack for the 2025 Champions Trophy with the addition of all-rounder Michael Bracewell. He will join the likes of Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra and Mitchell Santner. Santner has also been named captain of New Zealand for Champions Trophy 2025.

The team also features key hitters such as Kane Williamson, Tom Latham and Devon Conway. However, Williamson and Conway face a busy schedule as they will take part in the SA20 before heading to Pakistan for a pre-tournament tri-series.

Head coach Gary Stead is confident in the team’s balance

New Zealand coach Gary Stead expressed confidence in the team’s balance and experience.

“We are currently blessed with many quality players, and that certainly made for some challenging selection discussions,” Stead said. “Ultimately, we choose the team that will offer us the best options to perform well in the expected period.” conditions in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.”

Stead also emphasized the importance of the tri-series in Pakistan ahead of the Champions Trophy.

“The tournament format is unique in the sense that you have to hit the ground running, which means our preparation in the tri-series leading up to it is really important. It’s going to be a great occasion to open the tournament against the hosts Pakistan in Karachi, and we’re looking forward to getting there and getting stuck in,” he added.

New Zealand are placed in a challenging group alongside hosts Pakistan, India and Bangladesh. They will play the first match of the tournament against Pakistan on February 19 in Karachi.

New Zealand team for Champions Trophy and Pakistan Tri-Series: Mitchell Santner (captain), 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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