Milne and Allen were unable to travel to Pakistan due to injury.

New Zealand Cricket has informed that opener Finn Allen and quick bowler Adam Milne will not be participating in the forthcoming tour of Pakistan.

Allen experienced a back injury, while Milne sustained an ankle injury during training shortly before the team’s planned departure.

“Due to the nature of their injuries, they will be unable to participate in any of the five match series, which is scheduled to commence next week in Rawalpindi,” stated NZC. “Details regarding their resumption of cricket activities will be officially announced in the upcoming weeks.”

New Zealand has selected wicketkeeper Tom Blundell and the inexperienced allrounder Zak Foulkes as the substitutes. New Zealand has already selected a secondary squad for the series, as most of their preferred players are presently participating in the Indian Premier League. Blundell has not participated in T20Is for New Zealand for almost two years, while Foulkes has received his first-ever call-up.

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“Tom possesses extensive expertise as a player and, in addition to his exceptional wicketkeeping and batting abilities, he exhibits leadership qualities within any team he is involved with,” stated Head Coach Gary Stead. “Additionally, he possesses recent expertise in the prevailing circumstances, as he participated in both trips to Pakistan in the previous year.” Zak has had a remarkable season for Canterbury, emerging as the top wicket taker in all three competitions. He has demonstrated remarkable proficiency with the ball, specifically in T20 cricket for the Kings. Additionally, we are aware of his proficiency in batting, making it a remarkable chance for him to join our team.

The series, featuring the comeback of allrounder Michael Bracewell, commences on April 18 and concludes with the fifth and final T20I on April 27.