New Zealand Cricket Eyes T20 World Cup Aspirants Ahead of Home Series

CANTERBURY, New Zealand — A trio of uncontracted players is making a notable return to New Zealand’s cricket plans as they prepare for the 2026 T20 World Cup. Selection manager Gavin Wells announced that the players have made themselves available for all upcoming T20 International series, including the home series against Pakistan.

After competing in the 50-overs Ford Trophy, the players are set to showcase their skills in the five-match T20 series starting March 16, 2025. “Yeah, look, we’ve had some discussions with these guys and New Zealand Cricket has really emphasized preparing well for these pinnacle events,” Wells said. “The guys have committed to being available for all of our T20 campaigns moving forward, if selected.”

Among those players is Jimmy Neesham, who last represented New Zealand during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean. Neesham recently recorded a career-best performance, scoring 66 runs and taking three wickets for 53 runs, leading Auckland to the Ford Trophy final. “These guys are still really hungry and have made it very clear they’re eager to play for their country,” Wells added.

Finn Allen is another player rejoining the squad after completing his stint in Australia’s Big Bash League with the Perth Scorchers. He recently returned to captain Auckland in the Ford Trophy, demonstrating his leadership and skill. Additionally, Tim Seifert has made a comeback with Northern Districts in both the Ford Trophy and the Plunket Shield, despite previously declining a domestic contract.

Seifert’s performance against a formidable Canterbury bowling attack, which featured bowlers such as Kyle Jamieson and Henry Shipley, underscored his competitiveness. Wells noted, “That [the hunger to play for the country] is why they come back and play domestic cricket to stake their claim. They’ve done well, and it’s beneficial for us to see them competing in domestic cricket against the guys.”

Legspinner Ish Sodhi has also returned to the white-ball team, aiming to make an impression on spin-friendly pitches in India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. With captain Mitchell Santner sidelined from the home series due to IPL commitments, Sodhi could play a key role as the team’s primary spin-bowling option alongside stand-in captain Michael Bracewell.

Sodhi’s recent form has been promising, boasting nine wickets at an economy rate of 7.00. Wells commented on the strategic importance of spinners, stating, “In India, you’re going to be playing two or three spinners… most teams are utilizing wrist-spinners in both formats. We’re giving Ish an opportunity, as he has been a great performer in T20 cricket.”

Wells praised Bracewell not only for his all-rounder capabilities but also for his leadership qualities, emphasizing his role during last year’s T20 series in Pakistan. “Michael led the T20 side over in Pakistan last year… He’s experienced at the domestic level and is well respected,” Wells said. He added that although Bracewell lacks extensive international experience, his proven ability as a leader makes him a vital component of the team.