New Zealand have made changes to their squad for the final two One Day International matches against India, bringing in fast bowler Brett Randell and all-rounder Josh Clarkson as they look to finish the five-match series on a positive note.
New Zealand Cricket announced on Thursday, November 12, that Randell has received his maiden international call-up and will be available for both the fourth and fifth ODIs. Clarkson will join the squad for the fifth and final match.
The changes come at an important stage of the series, with India currently leading 2-0. India won the first two matches, while the third ODI in Hamilton was abandoned due to rain. New Zealand need to win both remaining matches to level the series at 2-2.
Brett Randell Receives Maiden International Call-Up
The selection of 31-year-old Brett Randell is one of the major developments in New Zealand's updated squad. The right-arm fast bowler has earned his first international selection following consistent performances in domestic cricket.
Randell has made 145 appearances in professional cricket, including five matches for New Zealand A. He has also recently returned from a County Championship stint with English county side Derbyshire.
His selection provides New Zealand with another fast-bowling option for the remaining matches. Head coach Rob Walter praised Randell's performances and said the bowler had earned the opportunity through his consistency in domestic cricket.
Randell is also in contention to make his international debut during the series. However, his appearance in either match will depend on the team's final selection and playing conditions.
The call-up is an important milestone in the fast bowler's career, giving him an opportunity to represent New Zealand at the international level.
Josh Clarkson Included for the Fifth ODI
All-rounder Josh Clarkson has also been added to the New Zealand squad, but his inclusion is specifically for the fifth and final ODI against India.
Clarkson previously featured in New Zealand's T20I squad during the India tour. His return provides the team with another all-round option for the series finale.
His ability to contribute with both bat and ball could give the team additional flexibility when selecting its playing combination.
New Zealand are expected to assess their options carefully as they prepare for the remaining fixtures. With the series already in India's favour, the team will be looking for improved performances in both departments.
India Lead the Five-Match ODI Series 2-0
India have established a strong position in the series by winning the opening two matches.
The first ODI was played in Auckland on November 4, where India secured a five-wicket victory under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method.
India then won the second ODI in Wellington on November 7 by four runs, also under the DLS method. The third match, scheduled in Hamilton on November 10, could not produce a result because of rain.
As a result, India hold a 2-0 lead heading into the final two games.
New Zealand must win both remaining matches if they are to level the series 2-2. Although they cannot claim a series victory from this position, two wins would allow them to avoid a series defeat.
Fourth and Fifth ODI Match Schedule
The fourth ODI between India and New Zealand is scheduled for Friday, November 13, at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. The fifth and final match will take place at the same venue on Sunday, November 15.
The New Zealand team will be led by Mitchell Santner in both matches.
The updated squads are as follows.
New Zealand squad for the fourth ODI
Mitchell Santner captain, Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Brett Randell, Tim Seifert and Will Young.
New Zealand squad for the fifth ODI
Mitchell Santner captain, Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay, Nick Kelly, Brett Randell, Tim Seifert, Blair Tickner and Will Young.
Randell is included in both squads, while Clarkson is available for the final match. Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson are named for the fourth ODI, while Blair Tickner features in the fifth ODI squad.
Changes to New Zealand's Coaching Staff
New Zealand Cricket has also announced changes to the coaching group for the remaining ODI matches as preparations begin for the upcoming Test series against India.
Northern Districts pathway coach Mitch Renwick and strength and conditioning coach Corey Mileys have joined head coach Rob Walter and assistant coach Martin Guptill for the fourth and fifth ODIs.
Meanwhile, regular bowling coach Jacob Oram, batting coach Luke Ronchi and strength and conditioning coach Chris Donaldson have left the ODI group to begin preparations for the Test series.
The first Test between India and New Zealand is scheduled to begin on November 19. The coaching changes are part of the team's preparations for the transition from the limited-overs matches to the longer format.
New Zealand Aim to Finish the Series Strongly
The remaining two matches are important for New Zealand as they look to respond after losing the first two ODIs. The addition of Randell provides an opportunity to introduce a new fast-bowling option, while Clarkson's inclusion strengthens the team's all-round resources for the final game.
For Randell, the upcoming matches could mark the beginning of his international career. His domestic performances have earned him the opportunity, and the team management will decide whether to hand him a debut.
India, meanwhile, will look to maintain their advantage and complete the series without a defeat. With two matches remaining at Mount Maunganui, both teams will be keen to make the most of the final fixtures.
