Young Auckland Aces batter Bevon Jacobs has been included in New Zealand's T20I squad for the home series against Sri Lanka, starting December 28. Known for his aggressive batting, Jacobs caught attention with a 16-ball 39 during a warm-up match against Sri Lanka and a standout performance in the domestic Super Smash tournament.
Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, and Matt Henry return for both the T20Is and ODIs after missing New Zealand’s recent tour of Sri Lanka. The series, featuring three T20Is and three ODIs, marks Mitchell Santner’s first assignment as New Zealand’s full-time white-ball captain.
New Zealand selector Sam Wells expressed excitement about Jacobs’ potential, highlighting his power-hitting and promising temperament across formats. Jacobs, who was recently acquired by the Mumbai Indians in the IPL auction, has been seen as a player for the future.
The squads also include Zac Foulkes, Mitch Hay, and Tim Robinson, who debuted in white-ball cricket earlier this year. Hay, who impressed Sri Lanka with a record-breaking fielding performance and reliable batting, will take over as wicketkeeper for the T20Is.
Tom Latham, Will O’Rourke, and Will Young will join for the ODIs, replacing Jacobs, Foulkes, and Robinson. O’Rourke has been rested for the T20Is to manage workload following a busy Test schedule.
Luke Ronchi will serve as head coach for this series, as Gary Stead takes a break after an extended coaching stint.