New Zealand ODI Squad: Duffy Returns, Sears Out

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-07-02

New Zealand Cricket has announced a 16-player squad for the five-match ODI series against the West Indies, starting July 11 in Guyana. It's a crucial build-up to the 2027 World Cup, and the team brings back some familiar faces while dealing with a tough injury blow. Mitchell Santner will captain the side through the Caribbean tour. The squad includes the return of experienced fast bowler Jacob Duffy, who took a short break for the birth of his first child. Plus, we've got a first-ever ODI call-up for Matthew Fisher. ### Jacob Duffy: Back and Ready to Lead Jacob Duffy rejoins the Black Caps after missing the recent Test series win over England. He last played during the T20 World Cup earlier this year. His return adds serious experience to a bowling group that's missing a few veterans. Duffy's not just any bowler—he's the current Sir Richard Hadlee Medal winner as New Zealand's player of the year. Head coach Rob Walter called him a "stand-out performer across all formats" over the last two years. The coaching staff expects him to bring leadership and depth to the pace attack in Guyana and Barbados. ### Matthew Fisher Gets His ODI Chance The selectors have called up 26-year-old speedster Matthew Fisher for the first time in ODIs. He's played one Test and one T20I for New Zealand but hasn't debuted in the 50-over format yet. Coach Walter praised his consistent domestic performances, his pace, and his ability to develop variations for different phases of an innings. That adaptability makes him a smart addition. ### Ben Sears: Injury Setback Before the Tour Ben Sears won't travel to the West Indies. He'll head home to New Zealand for treatment after feeling ankle pain during a four-day Test against Ireland back in May. The issue flared up badly on the final day of the third Test against England at Trent Bridge. Medical staff made the precautionary call to send him back, hoping to prevent more damage. It's a tough break for Sears, who was originally named in the squad after strong performances against England. ### Ben Lister Steps In Auckland Aces bowler Ben Lister will join the team in Guyana over the next few days to replace Sears. Lister's an experienced white-ball player with 17 international caps for New Zealand. He made his ODI debut in 2023 against Pakistan in Karachi and has taken 17 wickets across all formats for the Black Caps. His left-arm pace offers a different angle, which could be handy on the Guyana and Barbados pitches. Lister last played for the national team during the ODI series against Bangladesh in April. ### What This Means for the Series This series is more than just five games. It's a chance for New Zealand to test their depth and build momentum toward the 2027 World Cup. With Santner leading, Duffy providing experience, and Fisher getting his shot, the squad looks balanced despite the injury setback. Here's a quick look at the key changes: - Jacob Duffy returns after paternity leave. - Matthew Fisher earns his maiden ODI call-up. - Ben Lister replaces the injured Ben Sears. - Rachin Ravindra misses the series due to MLC commitments. The team will face the West Indies in Guyana and Barbados. It's going to be a tough tour, but this squad has the mix of youth and experience to compete. Keep an eye on Duffy's leadership and Fisher's pace—they could be the difference-makers.