Foulkes, Blundell called up to Blackcaps squad in wake of injuries

21-year-old Zak Foulkes has been called into the Blackcaps squad for the first time as injuries plague the side once again. Wellington's wicketkeeper batter has also earned a spot to cover the wicketkeeper and top-order batter spots.

Finn Allen (back) and Adam Milne (ankle) are the two players who will not feature in the five-match T20I series against Pakistan that starts next week in Rawalpindi. Both injured themselves at training this past week. Their plan to return to cricket will be confirmed in the coming weeks, with the side for the World Cup needing to be named this month, as per ICC regulations.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said that the team fell for both players and that they have also both made strong performances in the T20 format since the last World Cup.

Foulkes had a great domestic season, specifically in the T20 format. He grabbed 14 wickets at 16.29 and had a superb economy rate of 6.64. One of the moments of Foulkes’ summer has however with the bat, hitting the last ball of the elimination final for six to send the Kings into the final.

On the selection of Blundell and Foulkes, Stead said the following:

“Tom is a highly experienced player and along with his wicketkeeping and batting skill sets is a leader in any group he is a part of. He also brings recent experience in the conditions, having taken part in both tours to Pakistan last year.

“Zak has had an impressive season for Canterbury including being their leading wicket-taker in all three competitions. He has displayed impressive skills with the ball, particularly in T20 cricket for the Kings.

"We also know he has skills with the bat and it will be an excellent opportunity for him to be part of the group.” 

Central Stags batter Tom Bruce was considered as a replacement but made himself unavailable due to family reasons and his current County contract with Lancashire.