Bracewell to replace Glenn Phillips for Zimbabwe Test as the all-rounder is ruled out for first test due to injury.
Glenn Phillips is injured and will be replaced by Michael Bracewell for New Zealand’s first Test match against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.
Bracewell was already in Zimbabwe as a member of New Zealand’s T20I team for the tri-series, but he was initially unable to play in the series because to his obligations with The Hundred. Head coach Rob Walter stated that the choice to choose him was simple because his schedule let him to play in the first Test.
Because of a groin issue, Phillips had been ruled out of the Tests. On July 13, while playing for the Washington Freedom in the Major League Cricket (MLC) final, he sustained the injury.
“Glenn’s injury provided a gap in the Test squad and Michael is the closest like-for-like replacement,” Walter said. “His experience and skillset will be a great asset and allows us to keep the same balance of the team.”
Following the first Test, Bracewell will head back to the UK to join the Southern Brave. According to a NZC announcement, a decision regarding a substitute for the second Test will be made when the time is right.
Later this week, New Zealand will embark on its first Test visit of Zimbabwe since 2016, starting with a two-match series in Bulawayo.