New Zealand Dealt Huge Blow as Captain Tom Latham Suffers Injury Ahead of Pakistan ODI Series

New Zealand have been dealt a major setback ahead of their ODI series against Pakistan, as stand-in skipper Tom Latham has been ruled out with a fractured right hand. The wicketkeeper-batsman, who was set to lead the team in the absence of full-time captain Mitchell Santner, is expected to be sidelined for at least four weeks, the New Zealand Cricket Board confirmed.

Latham suffered the injury after being struck on his right hand, with scans later revealing the fracture. His absence means Mitch Hay will take over wicketkeeping duties, while Michael Bracewell, who recently led New Zealand to a commanding 4-1 T20I series win over Pakistan, will step up as captain in the 50-over format. Head coach Gary Stead expressed his disappointment over Latham’s injury but backed the team to adapt. “It’s obviously disappointing to lose Tom as captain on the eve of the series, and we wish him a speedy recovery,” Stead said. 

Meanwhile, opener Will Young will only be available for the first ODI, as he will miss the final two matches to be with his family for the birth of his second child. His absence has opened the door for Rhys Mariu, who has been named as his replacement for the last two games. Henry Nicholls, returning from a calf strain, has been called up to replace Latham in the squad. Another notable inclusion is Mohammad Abbas, the son of former Pakistan cricketer Azhar Abbas, who has received his first call-up to the ODI squad. 

With Latham ruled out and key players missing at different stages, New Zealand will need to dig deep as they take on a Pakistan side eager for revenge after their T20I series defeat. 

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