With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 just around the corner, Pakistan will host a crucial ODI tri-series featuring New Zealand and South Africa. This series will serve as a key opportunity for all three teams to fine-tune their combinations and assess their squad depth ahead of the marquee ICC event. For Pakistan, playing at home gives them an edge in familiar conditions, while South Africa and New Zealand will use the series to adapt and finalize their best XIs before the high-stakes tournament.
Jacob Duffy to cover for Lockie Ferguson in New Zealand squad
Meanwhile, New Zealand have announced their squad for the ODI series, featuring a group of talented players. Fast bowler Jacob Duffy has been added in the unit as a replacement for Lockie Ferguson, who is currently engaged with the Desert Vipers in the ILT20. With the UAE-based league running until February 10, Ferguson’s availability remains uncertain, prompting the Black Caps to bring in Duffy as cover. The 30-year-old pacer, who is also a reserve player for the Champions Trophy, will travel to Pakistan with the squad on Monday.
Duffy’s impressive white-ball form
Duffy’s selection comes on the back of his standout performances in the recent white-ball series against Sri Lanka. The right-arm quick picked up 12 wickets in five matches and was named the Player of the Series in the T20I leg. His ability to strike early with the new ball and deliver crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs makes him a valuable asset in New Zealand’s bowling attack.
Also READ: Pakistan Cricket Board announces new venues for the ODI tri-series with South Africa and New Zealand
Mitchell Santner to lead a star-studded squad
Mitchell Santner will continue in leadership role for the tri-series, leading a squad packed with experienced and in-form players. With senior pros like Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Tom Latham providing stability in the batting lineup, New Zealand will also bank on emerging stars like Rachin Ravindra and Ben Sears to make an impact. The bowling unit, spearheaded by Matt Henry and supported by Duffy, Will O’Rourke, and Nathan Smith, adds depth to the squad.
New Zealand’s squad for the tri-series in Pakistan:
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy