New Zealand captain ruled out of ODI series against Pakistan

New Zealand captain Tom Latham has been ruled out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan after suffering a hand fracture during net practice.

According to New Zealand Cricket, Latham was hit on his right hand while batting in the nets, resulting in a fracture that has sidelined him from the series. Henry Nicholls has been added to the squad as a replacement. Meanwhile, Michael Bracewell, who led the team in the T20I series, will continue as captain for the ODIs.

New Zealand Cricket also confirmed that Tom Blundell will take over wicketkeeping duties in the ODI series.

Additionally, Will Young will only be available for the first ODI, as he will be leaving the squad for the birth of his child. In his absence, Rhys Mariu has been included in the team for the remaining matches.

The three-match ODI series between Pakistan and New Zealand is set to begin on March 29, with the remaining two matches scheduled for April 2 and April 5. The first ODI will be played in Napier.

New Zealand recently won the five-match T20I series against Pakistan by a convincing 4-1 margin.