Rising Stars Kelly and Abbas Debut in New Zealand's ODI Series Against Pakistan

Nick Kelly and Muhammad Abbas have received their first call-ups for New Zealand's ODI series against Pakistan. The Tom Latham-led squad will feature several fresh faces as they gear up for three matches, starting March 29. Key players miss out due to IPL commitments and injury management.

New Zealand cricket has introduced fresh talent as uncapped players Nick Kelly and Muhammad Abbas make their debut in the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan. The selection comes as Tom Latham takes the helm, leading a revised team lineup.

The three-match series, starting March 29, sees the absence of regular white-ball skipper Mitchell Santner, with Latham stepping in as captain. The squad retains eight players from the ICC Men's Champions Trophy team, while also incorporating new faces for home advantage.

With regulars like Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, and Glenn Phillips absent due to IPL commitments, and Kane Williamson also unavailable, the focus shifts to emerging talents. The pace attack will be led by Will O'Rourke, Jacob Duffy, Nathan Smith, and Ben Sears, as seasoned players Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson remain sidelined due to injury and workload management.

(With inputs from agencies.)