New Zealand Cricket has announced its squad for the upcoming Zimbabwe T20I Tri-Series, which includes hosts Zimbabwe and South Africa alongside the Blackcaps. The 15-member squad, led by all-rounder Mitchell Santner, features a mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents. However, some big names have been left out, sparking conversations ahead of the series set to begin on July 14 and end on July 26, 2025.
Devon Conway and Kane Williamson Among Key Absentees
Once considered a mainstay at the top of the order, Devon Conway continues to fall out of favor with selectors. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) opener has been dropped following a dip in form, making way for others in the squad.
The most high-profile absentee is Kane Williamson, who has made himself unavailable. Currently playing county cricket and the T20 Blast in England with Middlesex, Williamson is reportedly focusing on his commitments in The Hundred, where he will feature for London Spirit. With the tournament starting on August 5, overlapping travel schedules and workload considerations played a key role in his decision.
Other notable players who were unavailable include:
- Kyle Jamieson, who opted out due to the upcoming birth of his child
- Ben Sears, recovering from injury
- Lockie Ferguson, rested as part of workload management
These absences have created opportunities for the return of Adam Milne and Matt Henry. Milne last played international cricket in November 2024, while Henry missed the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final due to an elbow injury.
Coach Rob Walter Confident in Fresh Squad
New head coach Rob Walter, formerly of South Africa, expressed confidence in the new-look squad. “I think we’ve got a really strong squad for this tour, and I’m looking forward to getting the team together and getting into the work,” Walter said.
Emerging pacer Bevon Jacobs is among the uncapped players included, and the tour presents a great opportunity for him to impress. Wicketkeeper Mitch Hay, another face from the last T20I series, has also been left out.
New Zealand Squad for Zimbabwe Tri-Series:
- Mitchell Santner (C)
- Finn Allen
- Michael Bracewell
- Mark Chapman
- Jacob Duffy
- Zak Foulkes
- Matt Henry
- Bevon Jacobs
- Adam Milne
- Daryl Mitchell
- Will O’Rourke
- Glenn Phillips
- Rachin Ravindra
- Tim Seifert
- Ish Sodhi
With several key players missing, the series will serve as a proving ground for younger and returning players alike. All eyes will be on how this refreshed squad performs under pressure in Zimbabwe.
