Popli to lead youthful New Zealand XI against Bangladesh

A young NZ XI led by experienced Northern Districts batsman Bharat Popli will play Bangladesh in a 50-over warm-up match at Lincoln's Bert Sutcliffe Oval on Thursday.

The squad features a number of players who have taken part in the New Zealand Development Squads as part of the New Zealand Men’s Development Series matches against Major Association ‘A’ teams in the past two seasons - including two yet to debut at full domestic level.

Aucklanders Nikith Perera and Samrath Singh will have the chance to test themselves against international opposition before making their potential domestic debuts.

BLACKCAPS selector Sam Wells said the tour match provided another useful development opportunity for the players as well as providing the touring side a warm-up fixture.

“It’s pleasing to bring so many young players together in this type of playing environment and to have someone of Bharat’s experience lead the group.

“With the Ford Trophy taking precedence, this match provides a valuable opportunity for players currently outside their association’s playing XI.

“It’s not every day that you get to play against an international team and I know the players are excited about the opportunity to test themselves on Thursday.”

New Zealand XI Squad

Bharat Popli (Captain, Northern Districts)
Jakob Bhula (Wellington)
Jacob Cumming (Otago)
Joey Field (Central Districts)
James Hartshorn (Wellington)
Jarrod McKay (Otago)
Sandeep Patel (Northern Districts)
Nikith Perera (Auckland)
Ben Pomare (Northern Districts)
Samrath Singh (Auckland)
Quinn Sunde (Auckland)
Jamal Todd (Otago)

The squad will be coached by New Zealand Cricket High Performance Network coaches Graeme Aldridge, Bob Carter and Paul Wiseman.