Tom Latham ruled out of Pakistan ODIs with fractured hand

New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan after fracturing his right hand during training. Henry Nicholls has been called up as his replacement.

Michael Bracewell, the T20I captain, will now lead the ODI side in Latham’s absence. Latham was originally set to captain the team in place of regular captain Mitchell Santner, who is currently playing in the IPL.

Latham sustained the injury while batting in the nets earlier this week, with an X-ray confirming the fracture. He will need to wear a cast and undergo “at least four weeks of rest and rehabilitation,” New Zealand Cricket (NZC) revealed.

Nicholls, who has 78 ODI appearances, has returned to form in domestic cricket with five fifties in six innings since recovering from a calf strain that kept him out for much of the season.

Meanwhile, opener Will Young will miss the second and third ODIs to be with his wife as they await the birth of their first child. Young will play the series opener in Napier on Saturday before being replaced by uncapped Canterbury batter Rhys Mariu, who has earned his maiden call-up.

Head coach Gary Stead expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt and felt it was an opportunity for other players to step up.

“We’ve had to be flexible this tour with numerous players unavailable for different reasons,” Stead said. “What it does do is offer opportunities to other players and it’s nice to introduce Rhys into the environment for the first time, as well as welcome back Henry.

“Henry’s been in good form since returning from his three month injury lay-off 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 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.”