New Zealand ODI Squad Shake-Up: Duffy Back, Sears Out

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-07-02

New Zealand Cricket has announced a 16-member squad for their five-match ODI series against the West Indies, starting July 11 in Guyana. This series is a crucial stepping stone toward the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, and the squad reflects some key changes. Mitchell Santner will captain the side throughout the Caribbean tour, bringing his all-round experience to the fore. The big news? Jacob Duffy is back after a short break for the birth of his first child, and a fresh face, Matthew Fisher, has earned his first-ever ODI call-up. ### Jacob Duffy Returns to the Black Caps Jacob Duffy rejoins the pace attack after missing the recent Test series win over England. He last played for the Black Caps during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup earlier this year. His return adds significant experience to a bowling group that's missing a few veterans. Duffy currently holds the Sir Richard Hadlee Medal as New Zealand's reigning 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 provide essential leadership and depth to the pace department during the five matches in Guyana and Barbados. ### Matthew Fisher Earns Maiden ODI Call-Up The selectors also included 26-year-old speedster Matthew Fisher in the 16-man group. This marks his first-ever call-up to the ODI squad. While he has played one Test match and one T20 International for New Zealand, he hasn't yet debuted in the 50-over format. Coach Walter praised Fisher's consistent performances in domestic cricket. He highlighted Fisher's ability to bowl at a good pace and his commitment to developing different variations for different phases of an innings. Fisher's adaptability to match situations makes him an important addition. ### Injury Blow for Ben Sears Ben Sears won't be traveling to the West Indies and will head home to New Zealand for treatment. He started feeling pain in his ankle during a four-day Test against Ireland in May, and the injury flared up significantly on the final day of the third Test against England at Trent Bridge. Medical staff made the precautionary decision to send Sears back to prevent further damage. It's a disappointment for Sears, who was originally named in the squad after his recent performances against England. ### Ben Lister Named as Replacement Auckland Aces bowler Ben Lister will join the team in Guyana over the next few days to take Sears' place. Lister is an experienced white-ball player who has already represented New Zealand in 17 international matches. He made his ODI debut in 2023 against Pakistan in Karachi and has taken 17 wickets across all formats for the Black Caps. Lister last played for the national team during the ODI series against Bangladesh in April. His left-arm pace brings a different angle to the New Zealand bowling attack, which could be useful on the Guyana and Barbados pitches. ### Key Takeaways from the Squad - Jacob Duffy returns after a personal break, bringing experience and leadership. - Matthew Fisher gets his first ODI call-up, adding pace and variety. - Ben Sears is out due to an ankle injury, with Ben Lister replacing him. - The series starts July 11 in Guyana, with all five matches serving as World Cup prep. This series is more than just a tour—it's a chance for New Zealand to test their depth and build momentum. With Santner at the helm and a mix of seasoned players and new talent, the Black Caps look ready to take on the West Indies.