New Zealand Cricket on Saturday confirmed that Daryl Mitchell will miss the 5th and final T20I of their home series against Pakistan on Sunday, January 21 in Christchurch. The decision to release Mitchell from the squad was taken, keeping in mind the star batter’s workload in the New Year.
All-rounder Rachin Ravindra has been added to the squad for the 5th T20I, which is a dead rubber as New Zealand are ahead 4-0 in the series, having dominated the touring Pakistan side so far.
“Daryl is an important player for us across all three formats and ensuring he’s in the best place to perform in international cricket is vital,” head coach Gary Stead said on the eve of the 5th T20I vs Pakistan.
Daryl Mitchell hit a match-winning 72 not out off 44 balls in a defining partnership with Glenn Phillips in the 4th T20I on Friday in Christchurch.
“Rachin is coming off a period of rest himself and will bring a valuable skill set to the group in this final match as he continues his return to cricket,” he added.
Rachin Ravindra, who took the ODI World Cup by storm in India, last played the home ODI series against Bangladesh in December 2023. He returned to action in a Super Smash game on January 15 after a period of rest.
WILL DEVON CONWAY PLAY 5TH T20I?
Meanwhile, New Zealand will wait until the matchday morning to take a call on Devon Conway’s availability. The star opener missed the 4th T20I in Christchurch after testing positive for Covid-19. Bowling coach Andre Adams also tested positive for Covid-19 and both of them remained at the team hotel in isolation on Friday.
New Zealand had roped in Chad Bowes as cover for Devon Conway for the 4th T20I. Wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert moved up a spot to open the batting on Friday while Will Young slotted into the No. 3 spot.
Stand-in captain had Mitchell Santner tested positive for Covid-19 and missed the series opener. However, he recovered and returned to lead New Zealand in the 2nd and 3rd T20Is.
New Zealand, who are looking to complete a 5-0 sweep of the T20I series, will next play a 2-Test series against a visiting South African side from February 4.
