Tom Latham Ruled Out of Pakistan ODIs with Fractured Hand

Tom Latham Ruled Out of Pakistan ODIs; Michael Bracewell to Captain Tom Latham has been ruled out of New Zealand's ODI series against Pakistan after suffering a fractured right hand during training. In his absence, Michael Bracewell will lead the team, while Henry Nicholls has been called up as a replacement. Latham, who was set to captain New Zealand with Mitchell Santner unavailable due to the IPL, sustained the injury earlier this week. X-rays confirmed the fracture, ruling him out of the series. The ODI series against Pakistan is an important fixture as both teams look to build momentum for upcoming ICC events. Bracewell, who has recently returned from injury himself, will now take on the leadership role. New Zealand Adjust Squad for Pakistan ODIs After Latham Injury New Zealand has made several adjustments to their ODI squad for the series against Pakistan following Tom Latham’s injury and other player availability issues. Mitch Hay will take over wicketkeeping duties, while Michael Bracewell will continue as captain after leading the team in the T20I series. Will Young will play only the first ODI in Napier before leaving the squad to be with his wife ahead of the birth of their first child. Uncapped batter Rhys Mariu, who has a first-class average of 61.73, has been called up as cover. Henry Nicholls returns to the squad after recovering from a three-month injury layoff. Muhammad Abbas and Nick Kelly, also uncapped at ODI level, remain part of the squad. Kane Williamson had already ruled himself out of the series. Coach Gary Stead on Squad Adjustments "We’ve had to be flexible this tour with numerous players unavailable for different reasons," New Zealand coach Gary Stead said. "What it does do is offer opportunities to other players, and it’s nice to introduce Rhys Mariu into the environment for the first time, as well as welcome back Henry Nicholls. "Henry’s been in good form since returning from his injury layoff, and he’ll add valuable skills and experience to the team. "It’s obviously disappointing to lose Tom as captain on the eve of the series, and we wish him a speedy recovery. The side is in safe hands with Michael, who’s done a great job through the T20I series. "Finally, we wish Will Young and his wife Elise all the best next week as they await their first child, which is such a special and important time for them." New Zealand continues to adapt their squad as they prepare to face Pakistan in the upcoming ODI series.