Jacob Duffy replaces Blair Tickner in squad for UAE T20Is

Dubai will host three T20I matches between the UAE and New Zealand later this month. The first T20I is scheduled to be held on Thursday, August 17. Tim Southee will be leading a side full of talented youngsters and some senior players as well. Following this tour, the Kiwis will be flying to England to play four T20Is and as many ODIs against Jos Buttler's men.

Tall fast bowler, Blair Tickner, was initially named in the side for the T20Is against the UAE. However, the management decided to replace him with fellow pacer Jacob Duffy to allow Tickner to stay at home in Hawke's Bay alongside his wife and newborn daughter. Duffy, 29, has played in 10 T20Is and picked up 10 wickets at an economy of 7.43. His last appearance in international cricket was a T20I against India earlier this year.

"We're a family environment and after speaking with Blair we fully support him being at home. The birth of a child is a special time and we're glad to be able to support Blair in being at home," New Zealand's head coach Gary Stead was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

"Jacob's been part of many Blackcaps squads in the past and has always acquitted himself well at international level. He's got good skills and experience and we look forward to welcoming him into our squad in Dubai," he added.

Some top players rested for UAE Tour

On expected lines, New Zealand rested some of their best players in the impending series against the UAE. The likes of Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, and Ish Sodhi, are among the ones rested for the tour.

However, the team led by Southee has some experienced campaigners like Jimmy Neesham, Tim Seifert, Mark Chapman, and Mitchell Santner among others. Kyle Jamieson is also in line to play his first T20I in over two years. This tour is important as some Kiwi players will be hoping to grab their opportunities with a T20 World Cup looming next year.