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FWC: BEL v SEN live on SN Extra‘Conveyor belt of talent’: Blackcaps lean on squad depth in West Indies
Elena Abbott • July 2nd, 2026 11:57 am
Kristian Clarke | Photo: Photosport
Despite missing some key players, selector Gavin Larsen believes his lesser-experienced Blackcaps squad has the quality to deliver in the West Indies.
Fresh from their historic Test triumph in England, the Blackcaps will look to make it back-to-back series wins when they hit the Caribbean for a five-match ODI tour this month.
However, the absence of some frontline players has raised some concerns.
Strike bowlers Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke have returned to New Zealand to rest, while Blair Tickner will go under the knife to repair an ankle injury.
The batting lineup has also been weakened, with Devon Conway (parenting duties), Rachin Ravindra (franchise cricket commitments) and Glenn Phillips (rest) out of the fold.
But Blackcaps selector Gavin Larsen told Sport Nation Breakfast he has complete confidence in the depth and experience in his squad.
“It's a fresh looking squad going to the Windies, but it's mixed in with some really good experience as well,” he explained.
Among the newcomers is Northern Districts bowler Matt Fisher, who is set to make his ODI debut.
Matt Fisher | Photo: Photosport
A star at domestic level, Fisher, 26, has taken 43 wickets in 25 List A matches at an average of 26 and has already represented New Zealand in one Test and one T20I.
“He's got an X Factor. I think he could be a very special cricketer. He's got the ability to bowl in the high 140s,” Larsen said.
“He's just come off a small camp over in Chennai, where the feedback was that he terrorised a few of the Indian batsmen over there.”
The Blackcaps’ bowling attack will also feature Nathan Smith - named man of the series in England with a 16-wicket haul.
Larsen believes the squad isn’t hindered by youth nor inexperience, saying the new additions are already meeting expectations and making selection challenging process.
“When it is difficult, that's great. There is a conveyor belt of talent now coming through.”
The Blackcaps' first ODI against the West Indies starts on July 12 at 6.30am (NZ time).
Listen to the full interview here:
