New Zealand’s preparations for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan have hit a snag with the unfortunate news of Adam Milne and Finn Allen being ruled out due to injuries. Milne suffered an ankle problem during training sessions, while Allen succumbed to a back injury, sidelining them from the squad set to commence the series on June 18th.
In response to the setbacks, NZC swiftly named Tom Blundell and Zak Foulkes as replacements for the injured duo. The decision was made to ensure the team’s readiness for the challenging series ahead. Additionally, Tom Bruce was considered but opted to prioritize family commitments and a county deal with Lancashire over national duties.
Expressing empathy for Milne and Allen, New Zealand coach Gary Stead acknowledged their significant contributions to the T20 format since the last World Cup. “We feel for both Finn and Adam, suffering injuries so close to the start of the tour. They have been strong performers for us in the T20 format since the last World Cup,” Stead remarked.
Stead also assured that the support staff and medical networks would work closely with the injured players to devise comprehensive treatment plans and facilitate their return to cricket in due course.
With Milne and Allen’s absence, the responsibility of leading the team falls upon all-rounder Michael Bracewell. However, the New Zealand squad faces additional challenges as several key players opted to participate in IPL 2024 over touring Pakistan, while others were unavailable for selection for various reasons.
Despite the setbacks, the New Zealand team remains determined to put forth a competitive performance in the T20I series against Pakistan, aiming to overcome the hurdles and make their mark on the international stage.
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