PAK vs NZ: New Zealand add Mark Chapman to ODI squad after outstanding performances in T20Is

Courtesy of his terrific form with the bat, New Zealand have added Mark Chapman to the ODI squad for the five-match series against Pakistan. Notably, the Kiwi all-rounder smashed a blistering century in the fifth and final T20I at Rawalpindi, which helped the visiting team beat Pakistan by six wickets. Overall, the 28-year-old smashed 290 runs in five matches and courtesy of which, he was named Player of the Series. 

Notably, the Kiwi head coach Gary Stead was mighty impressed with Chapman’s performance in the T20I series. He called it ‘outstanding’ and also reacted to the inclusion of the all-rounder in the ODI set-up.

“The way Mark’s played against one of the best T20 bowling attacks in the world has been nothing short of outstanding. His match-winning knock in the fifth and deciding match was particularly special and we’re happy to have someone in such strong form added to our ODI squad,” Stead was quoted as saying by the nzherald.co.nz.

It’s nice to see some reward for some hard work: Chapman

After being called up for the ODI series, Chapman revealed that he had already checked out of the hotel and was ready to catch a flight. However, he checked back in and had to unpack everything after the news. The cricketer also stated that he was happy to see that his hard work is finally reaping him rewards.

“I had to check back into my room because I already paid my bill and checked out. I sort of had my suitcases at the ground ready to go and brought them back to the hotel and started unpacking when I got back.

“Pretty thankful that they’re keeping me on ... I feel like I’ve been chipping away in the background over the last couple of years and a few months. I guess it’s nice to see some reward for some hard work,” Chapman said of his late call-up to the ODI squad.

Notably, the five-match ODI series between Pakistan and New Zealand will begin on April 27 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.