New Zealand has announced their 15-player squad for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, with Mitchell Santner set to make his debut as captain in a major ICC event. The tournament, returning after an eight-year break, will kick off with the Black Caps facing hosts Pakistan on February 19 in Karachi.
Santner, who has led New Zealand to success in recent ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka, will captain a team that combines experienced players with fresh faces. Veterans Kane Williamson and Tom Latham bring valuable experience, with Latham also set to take the wicketkeeping role. Both Latham and Williamson, along with Santner, were part of New Zealand’s squad in the 2017 Champions Trophy in England and Wales.
The pace attack will feature debutants Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, and Nathan Smith, marking their first appearance in a senior ICC event. They will be joined by seasoned bowlers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson, the latter set to play in his fifth ICC tournament, having been integral to New Zealand’s recent World Cup campaigns. Jacob Duffy is named as a reserve in case Ferguson has franchise commitments during the tournament.
Santner will lead the spin department with support from all-rounders Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra. The batting lineup is bolstered by Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, and Will Young, ensuring a well-balanced team across all formats.
Santner expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness, highlighting the blend of experience and youthful energy. “We have a solid group, with a great mix of experienced players and newcomers eager to prove themselves on the world stage,” he said.
New Zealand’s group-stage fixtures promise thrilling encounters. After their match against Pakistan in Karachi, the Black Caps will take on Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 24, followed by a highly anticipated clash with India in Dubai on March 2.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 provides New Zealand with an opportunity to cement their place among the world’s elite cricket teams and chase their first-ever title in the competition’s history.
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
