New Zealand suffer big blows ahead of Pakistan T20Is

New Zealand have suffered major blows ahead of highly-anticipated T20I series against Pakistan.

The second-tier Black Caps squad lose opener Finn Allen and pace bowler Adam Milne due to injuries.

Both players sustained their injuries during a training session just hours before the team’s scheduled departure to Pakistan.

Allen suffered a back injury, while Milne has succumbed to an ankle injury.

“We feel for both Finn and Adam, suffering injuries so close to the start of the tour. They have been strong performers for us in the T20 format since the last World Cup,” New Zealand coach Gary Stead said.

“Our support staff and medical networks will be working closely with both players over the next few weeks to complete plans for their treatment and subsequent return to cricket.”

Medical assessments have confirmed that neither player will be fit in time to participate in the five-match series starting next week in Rawalpindi.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell and all-rounder Zak Foulkes have been named as their replacements.

“Zak has had an impressive season for Canterbury including being their leading wicket taker in all three competitions,” Stead said. “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.”

They will arrive in Pakistan on April 14th for the five-match T20 series commencing on April 18th, with three matches scheduled in Rawalpindi and the remaining two in Lahore.

New Zealand squad:

Michael Bracewell (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Dean Foxcroft, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Adam Milne, Jimmy Neesham, Will O’Rourke, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert (WK), Ish Sodhi