New Zealand Cricket has unveiled its 15-member squads for the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series and five-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series against India, commencing January 11. Notably absent from the lineup is star batter Kane Williamson, who will be participating in the SA20 league. This absence opens the door for Jayden Lennox, who has earned his first international call-up following impressive domestic performances. Head coach Rob Walter expressed confidence in Lennox, highlighting his consistent form in domestic white-ball cricket and his potential as a future asset for the Black Caps. Several other players, including Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, and Mark Chapman, are also unavailable for the ODI series due to ongoing fitness recovery, though Chapman is expected to feature in the T20 leg. Ben Sears is also on a recovery program and was not considered for the ODI squad. The ODI squad is captained by Michael Bracewell, while Mitchell Santner will lead the T20I side. The selections reflect a strategic blend of established talent and emerging players as New Zealand prepares for a challenging tour of India.
