Batter to miss as New Zealand name ODI squad for West Indies

Experienced batter Kane Williamson remains a notable absentee as New Zealand revealed their squad for their upcoming three-match ODI series at home against the West Indies.

Williamson announced his retirement from T20I earlier this month and will skip the ODI series against the West Indies that commences in Christchurch on November 16 as he instead focuses on he upcoming ICC World Test Championship series with the Caribbean side from the start of next month.

The Black Caps are boosted by the return of key pacer Matt Henry for the ODIs with the West Indies, with in-form all-rounder Mitchell Santner to once again captain the side that will be looking to continue the momentum they received from their recent ODI series triumph against England.

The likes of Mohammad Abbas (ribs), Finn Allen (foot), Lockie Ferguson (hamstring), Adam Milne (ankle), Will O’Rourke (back), Glenn Phillips (groin) and Ben Sears (hamstring) remain sidelined due to injury, with pacer Blair Tickner retaining his place in the 14-player squad following some good efforts against England.

New Zealand coach Rob Walter has been impressed with the recent performances of Tickner and thinks the 32-year-old deserved to hold his place in the squad.

“We couldn’t have asked for more from Ticks against England,” Walter said.

“He brought plenty of energy and his pace and bounce proved to be a big test for some of the best batters in the world.

“It was pleasing to see him come in at short notice and perform at that level and that’s a testament to the hard work he’s been putting in away from the group.

“It’s awesome to be able to keep rewarding guys who work hard and perform when they get the opportunity, and we know he’ll be a big asset for us in another important series."

Walter is expecting a tough battle against the West Indies.

“The West Indies are always dangerous and have a host of players who can change a game in any format," he added.

“It’s another important series for us as we continue to grow and improve in the format, so we’re looking forward to what’s to come.”

New Zealand ODI squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Will Young

Series schedule:

First ODI - Christchurch, November 16
Second ODI - Napier, November 19
Third ODI - Hamilton, November 22