Bracewell Drafted into New Zealand Test Squad as Phillips Injury Forces Withdrawal

Michael Bracewell is set to join the New Zealand squad for the first Test match against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. This decision comes after Glenn Phillips was forced to withdraw from the tour due to a right groin injury sustained during the final of Major League Cricket.

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter believes Michael Bracewell is the closest like-for-like replacement for Glenn Phillips © Getty

Initially, Bracewell was unavailable for the two-Test series due to his prior commitments with Southern Brave in The Hundred. However, he is currently in Zimbabwe as a member of the T20I squad. New Zealand's head coach Rob Walter emphasized that Bracewell was a seamless fit to compensate for Phillips' absence.

According to Walter, "Glenn's injury created a void in the Test squad, and Michael is the most suitable like-for-like replacement." He added, "Michael's experience and diverse skillset will be extremely valuable, enabling us to maintain the team's existing balance. Considering he is already present with the T20 squad and his availability aligns with the first Test, we are seizing the opportunity to integrate him into the squad."

Walter further commented on the team's strategy, stating, "We'll navigate through the first Test, and subsequently, we will decide whether to replace him for the second Test."

Following the first Test, Bracewell is scheduled to return to Southern Brave to participate in The Hundred.