NZ v SL: Rachin Ravindra to replace Michael Bracewell in ODI squad

After the end of the ongoing Test series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka, both sides will take each other on in a three-match ODI series which is scheduled to begin on Saturday, March 25.

The first match will be played at the Eden Park, Auckland and the Black Caps will be missing the services of all-rounder Michael Bracewell as he will join Royal Challengers Bangalore for the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) as the replacement of Will Jacks.

As Bracewell will be missing the ODI series against Sri Lanka, the hosts have announced the 23-year-old Rachin Ravindra as his replacement in the squad. The youngster is yet to play an ODI for the Black Caps, and he will be keen on making an impact in the team when he finally gets his chance.

Ravindra has represented the Black Caps in six T20Is, and scored 54 runs and taken six wickets. He has also played three Tests for the national team, and scored 73 runs and taken three wickets.

The first ODI will be played on March 25, and Ravindra will be joining the NZ squad ahead of the first match and will look to be a fitting replacement for the in-form Bracewell.

This will be another good chance for him: NZ coach Gary Stead on Ravindra’s inclusion

Following the announcement of Michael Bracewell leaving the NZ camp after the Test series to compete in the IPL, the head coach of the Black Caps, Gary Stead, came forward to talk about Bracewell leaving for the IPL.

"Michael’s been a key contributor to our white ball teams since making his debut last year. It’s exciting he’ll get a chance to take up the learning opportunities the IPL provides - particularly as a spin bowling all-rounder.

"With a World Cup in India this year, it’s great to have players getting more experience in those conditions," Gary Stead stated in an official release by New Zealand Cricket.

He also talked about Ravindra’s inclusion in the squad, saying, "This will be another good chance for him to spend time in the Black Caps environment."