Brett Randell earns maiden New Zealand call-up for final two ODIs against India; Josh Clarkson recalled

New Zealand have made changes to their squad for the remaining matches of the ongoing ODI series against India, with injuries forcing the team management to explore additional options. The Black Caps have announced their squads for the fourth and fifth ODIs, bringing in fresh faces and recalling an experienced international player as they look to navigate the final stages of the series.

The biggest development is the maiden international call-up for 31-year-old fast bowler Brett Randell, who has been included in both squads. Meanwhile, all-rounder Josh Clarkson has also returned to the national setup, although his inclusion is limited to the fifth ODI.

Brett Randell receives maiden international call-up

Randell has received his first opportunity at the international level after being named in New Zealand’s squads for the fourth and fifth ODIs against India. The 31-year-old pacer has been rewarded with a place in the national team following his recent stint in English county cricket.

The fast bowler recently completed a County Championship season with Derbyshire, gaining valuable experience in English conditions before returning to New Zealand. His performances and experience have now earned him an opportunity to become part of the senior national setup.

Randell is expected to make his international debut during the ongoing series, although his exact participation will depend on the team’s requirements and selection decisions. His selection is particularly significant given New Zealand’s growing concerns over the availability of their fast bowlers. With injuries affecting the pace department, the management has been compelled to strengthen its resources ahead of the final two matches.

At 31, Randell will be looking to make the most of his maiden opportunity and establish himself as a potential option for New Zealand’s international bowling attack.

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Josh Clarkson returns for fifth ODI against India

Apart from Randell, New Zealand have also brought back Clarkson for the fifth and final ODI of the series. Clarkson has previously represented the Black Caps in six one-day internationals. However, he has been away from the international setup since April this year, when he last featured for New Zealand against Bangladesh.

His return provides the team with another option as they prepare for the series finale. Unlike Randell, Clarkson has been included exclusively in the squad for the fifth ODI.

The two selections come at a time when New Zealand are dealing with multiple injury concerns, particularly among their fast bowlers. The additional reinforcements are expected to provide the team with greater flexibility for the remaining fixtures.
New Zealand make changes to support staff ahead of final ODIs There have also been adjustments to New Zealand’s support staff for the fourth and fifth matches.

Northern Districts pathway coach Mitch Renwick and strength and conditioning coach Corey Mileys have joined the group for the remaining ODIs. They will work alongside Walter and former New Zealand captain Martin Guptill. Meanwhile, bowling coach Jacob Oram, batting coach Luke Ronchi and strength and conditioning coach Chris Donaldson have travelled to Wellington to begin preparations for the upcoming Test commitments.

New Zealand have named separate squads for the two matches, with Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson and Matt Fisher included for the fourth ODI, while Blair Tickner replaces Jamieson in the fifth-match squad. Clarkson also features only in the latter. Mitchell Santner will continue to lead the side in both fixtures, with Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Jacob Duffy and Will Young among the players retained across the two squads.

New Zealand Squad for 4th ODI: Mitchell Santner (capt), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay (wk), Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Brett Randell, Tim Seifert (wk), Will Young

New Zealand Squad for 5th ODI: Mitchell Santner (capt), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Mitch Hay (wk), Nick Kelly, Brett Randell, Tim Seifert (wk), Blair Tickner, Will Young

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