Late call-ups for New Zealand's T20 tour of Pakistan: Blundell and Foulkes join squad

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 12, 2024, 08:36 IST

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New Zealand Cricket has added Tom Blundell and Zak Foulkes to the national squad for the upcoming Twenty20 tour of Pakistan. Blundell, a seasoned wicketkeeper, will strengthen the top-order batting lineup, while Foulkes, a 21-year-old all-rounder, has earned his debut call-up after impressing selectors.

Late call-ups for New Zealand's T20 tour of Pakistan: Blundell and Foulkes join squad

Tom Blundell of New Zealand (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)

NEW DELHI: New Zealand Cricket has announced the inclusion of Tom Blundell and Zak Foulkes to the national squad for the upcoming Twenty20 tour of Pakistan. The decision comes after the unfortunate sidelining of Finn Allen and Adam Milne due to injuries sustained just before departure.
Blundell, a seasoned wicketkeeper with prior experience touring Pakistan, will offer his expertise behind the stumps along with bolstering the top-order batting lineup.
On the other hand, Foulkes, a promising 21-year-old all-rounder, earns his maiden call-up to the Black Caps squad, impressing selectors with his standout bowling performances for Canterbury in domestic competitions.
Expressing empathy for Allen and Milne, New Zealand's head coach Gary Stead highlighted their pivotal roles in the team's T20 endeavors since the last World Cup. Nevertheless, Stead voiced confidence in the capabilities of Blundell and Foulkes to seamlessly integrate into the squad and make meaningful contributions.

The upcoming series against Pakistan, set to commence in Rawalpindi next Thursday, holds significant importance for both teams as they gear up for the T20 World Cup slated for later this year.
With New Zealand aiming to build on their recent T20 success, the addition of Blundell and Foulkes injects depth and versatility into the squad, further solidifying their preparation for the challenges ahead.
(With inputs from AFP)

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