New Zealand has announced their 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, with their first game scheduled against hosts Pakistan on February 19.
This tournament marks the beginning of a new era under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, the newly appointed white-ball skipper. Santner takes the reins after a successful run in the ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka at home.
This event will also see the debut of New Zealand’s promising pace trio – Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, and Nathan Smith – in a senior ICC tournament. The trio brings fresh energy to the team and will look to make their mark on the international stage. Santner, the team’s premier spin-bowling option, will be supported by a strong group of all-rounders, including Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra.
Veteran players Kane Williamson and Tom Latham will lend invaluable experience to the squad. Latham, a consistent performer, will don the wicketkeeping gloves for the tournament. Both Williamson and Latham were part of New Zealand’s squad in the 2017 Champions Trophy in England, while Williamson also participated in the 2013 edition.
In the bowling department, Matt Henry is set to lead the pace attack alongside Lockie Ferguson, a seasoned campaigner with experience in four prior ICC events. Ferguson’s proven track record in high-pressure situations will be crucial for New Zealand’s success. Jacob Duffy has been named as a reserve player and could replace Ferguson should the latter become unavailable due to franchise cricket commitments.
Squad Details
New Zealand Squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
Group Stage Fixtures
• 19 February: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Karachi
• 24 February: Bangladesh vs New Zealand, Rawalpindi
• 2 March: India vs New Zealand, Dubai
New Zealand enters the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a balanced mix of youth and experience. Under Santner’s leadership, the team will aim to build on its rich history in ICC events and make a strong impact in the tournament.