Fresh off the back of his maiden New Zealand A first-class hundred last week, Firebirds skipper Michael Bracewell has been named captain of the New Zealand A side to face Pakistan Shaheens in Whangarei starting tomorrow.

Bracewell was one of the stars of the New Zealand A sides four-day victory over West Indies A at Saxton Oval in Nelson last week, reaching 135 off 235 balls.

Fellow Firebirds teammate Rachin Ravindra is also included in the squad - the 21-year-old put in a memorable performance with bat and ball against West Indies A, reaching 144 with the bat, before taking 6-89 with the ball.

National selection manager Gavin Larsen sang the praises of the A programme, saying it was a critical step in terms of preparing New Zealand’s top domestic players for international cricket.

“It’s just been invaluable,” he said. “It gives completely different opportunities to different players, depending on their particular circumstances at the time.

“New Zealand has good depth in its international ranks right now and I think that’s a direct result of having a meaningful and strong A programme.”

Larsen said Leo Carter and Sean Solia would act as 12th/13th men to cover for concussion and/or COVID-19 substitutes. Having played the sixth round of the Ford Trophy yesterday, both were travelling to Whangarei today.

He added that Ajaz Patel, who suffered a calf injury six weeks ago, will join the team and train with it, as he continues his rehabilitation ahead of the Test series against Pakistan.

No BLACKCAPS were available for selection due to the T20 series against Pakistan.

New Zealand A squad vs Pakistan Shaheens:

Michael Bracewell (c)
Joe Carter
Leo Carter
Henry Cooper
Cameron Fletcher
Matt Henry
Ken McClure
Ed Nuttall
Nathan Smith
Michael Rae
Rachin Ravindra
Michael Rippon
Sean Solia

Article added: Wednesday 16 December 2020