Dunedin
Uncapped pacer Ben Sears has been included in the New Zealand ODI squad as a cover for fast-bowler Kyle Jamieson, who reported stiffness in his left hamstring after returning from the Test series in Bangladesh. The decision to bring in Sears is a cautious approach, considering Jamieson’s condition and the start of the home summer. Head coach Gary Stead stated, We don’t want to rush or push him back, particularly at the very start of our home summer. He could play if absolutely necessary, but we don’t want to take any unnecessary risks, hence calling in Ben for this first match. Sears, who is yet to make his ODI debut but has six T20I appearances, has been part of the squad for last year’s Chappell-Hadlee Series against Australia. He has taken 36 wickets in 29 List A games at an average of 33.77 and an economy of 5.62. New Zealand is set to play the first ODI against Bangladesh on December 17 in Dunedin, with subsequent ODIs scheduled for December 20 in Nelson and December 23 in Napier. The inclusion of Sears provides additional depth to the squad as they assess Jamieson’s fitness for the upcoming matches.
