New Zealand have unveiled their 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, marking Mitchell Santner’s debut as skipper in a major ICC event. The tournament, returning after an eight-year hiatus, will see the Black Caps begin their campaign against hosts Pakistan on 19 February in Karachi.
Santner, who has enjoyed recent success as New Zealand’s white-ball captain in ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka, will lead a squad blending seasoned players with fresh talent. Veterans Kane Williamson and Tom Latham bring experience to the line-up, with Latham set to take the wicketkeeping gloves. Both players, along with Santner, were part of New Zealand’s squad in the 2017 Champions Trophy held in England and Wales.
The pace attack features debutants Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, and Nathan Smith, all set to play their maiden senior ICC event. They join experienced bowlers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson, who will play his fifth ICC tournament, having been a key figure in New Zealand’s recent World Cup campaigns. Jacob Duffy is named as a reserve for Ferguson, who may have franchise cricket commitments during the tournament.
Santner will lead the spin department with support from versatile all-rounders Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra. Batting depth is provided by Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, and Will Young, ensuring the team has balance across disciplines.
The squad reflects a strategic mix of experience and new talent, with the management eyeing a strong performance in the Champions Trophy. Williamson, who also played in the 2013 edition in England, and Latham will aim to guide younger players in high-pressure situations.
Speaking about the squad, Santner expressed confidence in the team’s preparation. “We have a well-rounded group with a good mix of experience and fresh energy. This is a fantastic opportunity for some of the newer players to showcase their skills on the global stage,” he said.
New Zealand’s group-stage fixtures promise intense matchups. After facing Pakistan in Karachi, the Black Caps will take on Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on 24 February, followed by a high-profile clash with India in Dubai on 2 March.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 offers New Zealand a chance to solidify their status as one of the top sides in world cricket, with hopes of claiming their first title in this tournament’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
