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On Sunday, January 12, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025. The marquee tournament, which will mark its return after last being played in 2017 in England, will be played in Pakistan and the UAE from February 19 till March 9.
New Zealand, who have been placed in Group A alongside hosts Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, will be led by Mitchell Santner, who replaced Kane Williamson as their white-ball captain. Seasoned players like Kane Williamson, Devon Conway and Lockie Ferguson have been recalled for the tournament after missing a few series.
Mitchell Santner to lead New Zealand; Nathan Smith, Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears to appear in their first ICC tournament
In yet another special squad announcement, spin bowler Mitchell Santner announced his team for the mega tournament, set to be held in February-March this year. Notably, it will be the first time that Santner will be leading the side in an ICC tournament after a successful stint as their white-ball captain. While the skipper will lead the spin attack, it also feature all-rounders including Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra.
Matt Henry will spearhead the pace attack, consisting of Lockie Ferguson along with the trio of Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears and Nathan Smith. Moreover, Jacob Duffy has been added as a backup in case Ferguson is not available due to ILT20 playoffs. "I’d especially like to acknowledge Ben, Nathan and Will who will be attending their first senior ICC events and I know they’re really excited to do so," head coach Gary Stead said.
"Although the Champions Trophy hasn’t been played for a few years, the team is well aware of the history of the tournament and the fact New Zealand were the first winners of the tournament in 2000, when it was known as the ICC Knockout Trophy. The team and support staff are really looking forward to representing New Zealand and our fans on the big stage and giving it our all to make them proud," he added.
New Zealand’s squad for ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025
Mitchell Santner (capt), Will Young, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Ben Sears, Will O'Rourke
