Michael Bracewell returns to lead new-look New Zealand team for Pakistan T20Is

New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has returned to the national side to lead the new-look team for the five-match T20Is against Pakistan, starting April 18. Bracewell missed all on-field cricket since March last year after suffering a ruptured right Achilles playing for Worcestershire and the broken finger later.

Fast bowler Will O'Rourke, who debuted in Tests and ODIs earlier this season, is named in the 15-man squad, while uncapped batter Tim Robinson is also picked and likely to debut during the away tour.

Meanwhile, as many as nine first-team players will miss this series due to their IPL commitments.The Kiwis will also be without Will Young, who took up an overseas deal with Nottinghamshire and veteran Tom Latham, who will be away for the birth of his first child. Test Captain Tim Southee has also missed the cut, as the selectors want him to rest following the extended home season.

Meanwhile, the squad selection and the tour will play a handy role in the selectors naming a balanced team for the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and USA in June.

"Michael has faced a long period on the sideline, and it's exciting to see him back playing cricket again," selector Sam Wells said.

"The fact he's back playing at a high level after an Achilles rupture is testament to his hard work and application.

"He's a well-respected leader and has captaincy experience for Wellington along with New Zealand A and New Zealand XI teams, which we believe holds him in good stead to lead the group in Pakistan,” he added.

Wells also shed some light on the prospect of Tim Robinson, who is the second-highest run-getter in the Super Smash competition, amassing 298 runs at a strike rate of 187.42, including hitting 139 off 64 balls against Otago.

"Tim is still very early in his domestic career but his natural ability and explosive power was on full display this season," Wells praised the young batter.

"Combined with his outstanding fielding, we believe he has a skill set that's well suited to the format.

"We've been delighted with Will's early efforts in international cricket, in both the formats he's played so far. This tour will be an excellent chance for him to test his skills in foreign conditions,” he continued.

Michael Bracewell (captain), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Adam Milne, Jimmy Neesham, Will O'Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert and Ish Sodhi