In his absence, Michael Bracewell continues with the captaincy after leading the team in the T20I series. In his stead, Henry Nicholls has been brought in, while Mitch Hay will assume the role of the new wicketkeeper. 

Also Read: Watch: Ishan Kishan and Umpire Anil Chaudhary making fun of Mohammad Rizwan

Latham was set to lead New Zealand with Qd the IPL Santner; however, he suffered an injury earlier this week that did not allow him to participate. Latham did get x-rays to assess the damage. After the first ODI in Napier, Will Young steps out of the squad to support his wife as they prepare to welcome their first child. He is replaced by rhythmic 23-year-old batter Rhys Mariu, who has a first-class career average of 61.73.

Michael Bracewell will lead New Zealand in the ODI series against Pakistan, with Tom Latham ruled out after suffering a fractured hand during training; Henry Nicholls has been called up.

More details: https://t.co/xOG4E0k833 #NZvPAK pic.twitter.com/6nDXzA42yH

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 27, 2025

Also Read: IPL 2025: Another security breach as fan falls at Riyan Parag’s feet during RR vs KKR

Head coach of New Zealand, Garry Stead, spoke of the changes to the squad, admitting they had several players unavailable, and it did indeed pose a challenge; however, it did create opportunities as well. He also honored two players coming into the squad for their performance and remained confident in Bracwell's leadership. “Disappointing as it is losing Tom is, Michael did an excellent job leading the T20I series, and I am pleased to see the shape Michael's leadership of the team is in,” Stead responded. He also extended best wishes to Young and his wife, Elise.

The squad had already included uncapped players Muhammad Abbas and Nick Kelly, while Kane Williamson opted out of the series. New Zealand will now rely on a mix of experience and fresh talent as they take on Pakistan.