Milne pulls out of NZ ODI series against Pakistan, India

Fast bowler Adam Milne has been pulled out of the New Zealand’s upcoming One Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan and India, the Black Caps announced on Monday. 

The 30-year-old withdrew from the white-ball squad due to concerns about his preparation as he finished the recent home series against India with a tight hamstring. 

“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,” NZC selector Gavin Larsen said. 

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

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Milne has been replaced by pacer Blair Tickner, who is currently in Karachi with the NZ Test squad. 

“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,” Larsen said. “The fact he’s already in Pakistan experiencing the conditions is an added bonus.”

Earlier, the Black Caps had announced two separate squads for the ODI series against Pakistan and India and Milne was part of both.

The three-match ODI series against Pakistan will start on January 9. The players will depart New Zealand on January 4.