|| CF DESK ||

The Blackcaps' white-ball squads for the upcoming series in Pakistan and India have been changed, with Adam Milne withdrawing due to concerns about his preparation.

Milne, who suffered a hamstring strain during the recent home series against India, will be replaced by Blair Tickner, who is already in Pakistan with the New Zealand Test squad.

The prospect of playing six one-day internationals in 16 days across Pakistan and India was deemed too risky by the fast bowler.

The decision was reached through mutual agreement, with selector Gavin Larsen stating that it was not an easy one.

“Adam was very up front with us about his concerns around the lack of one-day bowling loading for the upcoming tours,” Larsen said.

“After chatting to him, we agreed his preparation leading into the tour wouldn’t be sufficient for him to cope with the demands of back-to-back, three-game ODI series.

“We appreciate his honesty and his genuine desire not to let the team down.”

Tucker has nine ODI wickets to his name since making his debut against Netherlands in March 2022.

Larsen said, “Blair’s skills at bowling through the middle and his ability to hit the pitch hard make him a similar prospect to what Adam offered us.

"The fact he’s already in Pakistan experiencing the conditions is an added bonus.”

New Zealand will play the first of three ODIs against Pakistan on January 9 in Karachi.