PHOTO: ICC
New Zealand have made a late change to their squad for this month’s T20I series against UAE, with experienced pacer Blair Tickner to skip the series due to family reasons.
Tickner was originally named in the 15-player squad for the three-game T20I series that commences in Dubai on Thursday, but the right-armer will instead stay in New Zealand to be alongside his wife and new child following the birth of their daughter last week.
His place in the squad will be taken by fellow quick Jacob Duffy.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead said it was an easy choice for Tickner to make to stay at home with his family.
“We’re a family environment and after speaking with Blair we fully support him being at home with Sarah and young Florence,” Stead said.
“The birth of a child is a special time and we’re glad to be able to support Blair in being at home.”
Stead believes Duffy is more than capable of filling the void given the 29-year-old is a proven performer in the shortest format of the game at international level and in domestic circles.
“Jacob’s been part of many Blackcaps squads in the past and has always acquitted himself well at international level,” Stead added.
“He’s got good skills and experience and we look forward to welcoming him into our squad in Dubai.”
New Zealand squad: Tim Southee (c), Adi Ashok, Chad Bowes, Mark Chapman, Dane Cleaver, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Kyle Jamieson, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Jimmy Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert, Will Young
T20I schedule v UAE:
First T20I – Aug 17 – Dubai
Second T20I – Aug 19 – Dubai
Third T20I – Aug 20 – Dubai
