PAK vs NZ: Mark Chapman included in New Zealand ODI squad after stellar performance in T20s

Following his remarkable display in the T20I series that concluded recently, Mark Chapman has secured a spot in New Zealand’s ODI squad for their upcoming series against Pakistan. With a total of 290 runs, Chapman topped the run-scorers chart in the five T20Is against Pakistan, earning praise from many, including Blackcaps head coach Gary Stead. Stead commended Chapman’s exceptional performance against one of the world’s top T20 bowling attacks, citing his game-changing innings in the fifth and final match as particularly noteworthy.

New Zealand was ahead 2-1 in the series when the fourth match was abandoned due to rain. Pakistan appeared set to win the final T20I, with a score of 193/5, bolstered by Mohammad Rizwan’s 98* and contributions from Iftikhar Ahmed and Imad Wasim. However, Chapman’s heroics turned the tide in New Zealand’s favor.

Chapman entered the game with the Blackcaps at a precarious 26/3 in the fourth over and proceeded to score an explosive 104* off just 57 balls, featuring 11 fours and four sixes. Jimmy Neesham’s vital 25-ball 45* also contributed to New Zealand’s successful chase, completed with four balls to spare. Throughout the series, Chapman consistently impressed, with notable performances in Lahore and Rawalpindi, earning him both Player of the Series and Player of the Match awards.

With two centuries in his seven ODI appearances, Chapman boasts an average of 52.40. As the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India draws closer, the upcoming five-match ODI series against Pakistan will be essential for both teams to assess their players and finalize their lineups for the prestigious event. The series offers Chapman an excellent opportunity to strengthen his case for inclusion in New Zealand’s World Cup squad.

Both New Zealand and Pakistan, along with five other teams, have secured direct qualification spots for the World Cup. The Blackcaps have demonstrated their prowess in the 50-over format, leading the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League standings with 16 wins from their 25 matches.

Blackcaps ODI squad: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell, Chad Bowes, Mark Chapman, Matt Henry, Ben Lister, Cole McConchie, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Rachin Ravindra, Henry Shipley, Ish Sodhi, Blair Tickner, Will Young.

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