New Zealand Announce 14-Member Squad for T20I Series Against Australia: Michael Bracewell to Lead

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have announced a 14-member squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia, scheduled to be played at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui from October 1 to 4, 2025. The series forms part of the prestigious Chappell-Hadlee Trophy, but the Blackcaps will head into the contest with a reshaped lineup due to injuries and player absences.

Michael Bracewell Takes Over Captaincy

The standout headline is the appointment of Michael Bracewell as captain, stepping in for Mitchell Santner, who is sidelined after abdominal surgery.

Bracewell, an all-rounder known for his composure under pressure, has prior leadership experience, having captained New Zealand during their Pakistan tour. His dual role as a key batter and off-spinner makes him a natural fit to guide the side against a strong Australian unit.

Santner’s absence will, however, be deeply felt. Since taking charge of New Zealand’s white-ball setup in December 2024, he has been instrumental in reshaping their approach, particularly with his tactical nous in crunch moments.

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Key Stars Missing from the Squad

The Blackcaps will be without several of their first-choice players, creating significant challenges ahead of the series.

• Kane Williamson – Opted out due to personal reasons; expected to return for the England series later in October.
• Finn Allen – Sidelined with a foot injury, depriving New Zealand of an explosive start at the top.
• Adam Milne (ankle), Lockie Ferguson (hamstring), Will O’Rourke (back) – A depleted fast-bowling attack.
• Glenn Phillips – Ruled out with a groin injury, a major blow given his finishing ability.

These absences mean several domestic performers and fringe internationals now have a chance to stake their claim ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

Bowling Boost: Jamieson and Sears Return

Despite the setbacks, there is reason for optimism in the bowling department.

• Kyle Jamieson returns after missing the Zimbabwe tri-series, bringing height, bounce, and wicket-taking ability.
• Ben Sears, fully fit after a side strain, adds further depth to the pace unit.

Together, they will form the backbone of New Zealand’s bowling lineup, supported by Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, and Ish Sodhi. Against a formidable Australian batting order, their contributions will be crucial.

Blend of Experience and Youth

Bracewell’s leadership group features seasoned campaigners such as Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, and Ish Sodhi, who bring stability. Meanwhile, youngsters like Tim Robinson and Zak Foulkes will be eager to seize the spotlight on the international stage.

This series is more than just a bilateral battle it is a litmus test of New Zealand’s depth and resilience. Facing Australia at home is never easy, but with opportunities for new faces, it could shape the future of the Blackcaps heading into global tournaments.

Official New Zealand T20I Squad vs Australia (2025)

Michael Bracewell (c), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi

The New Zealand vs Australia T20I series promises high-octane cricket, even in the absence of star names like Williamson and Santner. For Michael Bracewell, it is a defining moment as he steps up to lead against one of world cricket’s most competitive sides. For fringe players, it’s an opportunity to prove their mettle and push for T20 World Cup spots.

With the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy at stake, fans can expect nothing less than a fiercely contested series at the Bay Oval.