Santner to lead New Zealand in the T20 era after Williamson; Jamieson and Sodhi return
New Zealand Cricket has announced its 14-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20 International series against the West Indies, starting on Wednesday, November 5. This will be the team’s first T20 series since Kane Williamson announced his retirement from the T20 format, with Mitchell Santner captaining the team.
The team sees the return of two key players: fast bowler Kyle Jamieson and spinner Ish Sodhi. Sodhi returns to the T20 International squad after last playing against Australia in October. This series also welcomes all-rounder Nathan Smith, who is set to make his T20 International debut.
Williamson steps back, not Away
Although former captain Kane Williamson was not considered for selection, the article clarifies that he has only retired from T20 International cricket. The charismatic batsman will remain a part of New Zealand’s Test and ODI squads and will also be active in T20 franchise leagues around the world.
Kiwi team affected by injury problems
Injuries to several key players played a major role in selection. The New Zealand Cricket Board has confirmed that five players are currently out of the squad:
* Finn Allen (foot injury)
* Lockie Ferguson (hamstring)
* Adam Milne (ankle)
* Glenn Phillips (groin)
* Ben Sears (hamstring)
In addition, fast bowler Matt Henry has been rested. Despite this long list of injuries, the board hopes that all affected players will be available for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
Series Context
This T20 series is considered crucial for both teams as they look to regain their form ahead of the T20 World Cup. Reports state that both West Indies and New Zealand have struggled recently in the T20 format, making this series an important opportunity to regain momentum.
 New Zealand T20I squad vs West Indies:
Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulks, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi
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