The Blackcaps stand-in ODI skipper Tom Latham has been ruled out of the ODI series against Pakistan, which begins from Saturday (March 29) in Napier.

Tom Latham Latham was struck on his hand by a delivery while batting in the nets during training this week, with a subsequent X-ray revealing that the fracture will require at least four weeks rest and rehabilitation.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead confirmed that Henry Nicholls will replace Tom Latham to the squad. While T20I stand-in skipper Michael Bracewell is set to lead in the ODI series as well.

Opener Will Young will be available only for the ODI series opener on his homegrown and then he'll take a break as he's expecting the birth of his first child. 23-year-old batsman Rhys Mariu who’s earned his maiden call-up, will replace Will Young for the second and third ODI.

“We’ve had to be flexible this tour with numerous players unavailable for different reasons,” Gary Stead said.

“What it does do is offer opportunities to others 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.”

New Zealand squad for the Pakistan ODI's:

Henry Nicholls, Muhammad Abbas, Adi Ashok, Michael Bracewell (Captain), Mark Chapman , Jacob Duffy, Mitch Hay, Nick Kelly, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Will Young (Available for only first ODI), Rhys Mariu (Available for second and third ODI).