New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has revealed its squad for the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka, with spin-bowling all-rounder Mitchell Santner named as the interim captain. The 15-member squad will compete in two T20Is and three ODIs, starting on November 9 in Sri Lanka, marking the beginning of New Zealand's preparations for future ICC tournaments.

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Santner will be leading the side temporarily, with NZC confirming that the long-term ODI and T20I captain will be appointed during the New Zealand home summer. “Santner has been named as interim captain for the tour with a decision on the long-term ODI and T20I captains to be confirmed in the New Zealand home summer,” said NZC in an official statement.

One of the most exciting aspects of the squad announcement was the inclusion of bowling all-rounder Nathan Smith and wicketkeeper-batter Mitch Hay, who earned their first call-up to the national team. Smith’s stellar performances in domestic cricket, including being named NZC’s Men’s Domestic Player of the Year, have been rewarded with his selection.

New Zealand selector Sam Wells expressed his confidence in the debutants, stating, “Nathan and Mitch have demanded selection through weight of performance and I am sure they will be looking forward to showcasing their skills on the international stage.” He added, “Nathan’s led the Wellington attack with distinction, and Mitch has been a standout domestic player with his power hitting and organisation as a batsman.”

Wells further highlighted that the squad is a balance of youth and experience, designed with future ICC events in mind. “This tour is the beginning of the build-up towards the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2025 and we also have an eye towards the 2027 one-day Cricket World Cup,” he remarked.

New Zealand squad for the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka:

Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay (wk), Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Will Young