The inaugural T20 international of the five-match series between Pakistan and New Zealand is scheduled to take place in Auckland on Friday, kicking off at 11:10 am Pakistan Standard Time.
In a related development, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has announced the appointment of former all-rounder Andre Adams as the bowling coach for the men’s national side during the T20I series against Pakistan. Adams, a 48-year-old former player, will join head coach Gary Stead’s coaching staff, which also includes ex-New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Luke Ronchi as the batting coach. Adams officially assumes his role in Auckland on Wednesday.
During his playing career, Adams represented New Zealand in one Test, 42 ODIs, and four T20Is over a span of five years. Following his retirement, he transitioned into coaching, notably contributing to the resurgence of players like Mitchell Starc. His coaching experience extends to various roles, including coaching the New Zealand women’s team’s fast bowlers during their limited-overs tour of South Africa in 2023.
The coaching staff adjustments for the T20I series also involve Chris Donaldson, the New Zealand strength and conditioning coach, and Simon Insley, the team performance manager, taking a break. Their roles will be temporarily filled by Matt Long, Cricket Wellington’s head of athlete development, and Dave Meiring, Central Districts’ high-performance manager, respectively.
The T20I series between New Zealand and Pakistan commences on January 12 in Auckland, followed by matches in Hamilton, Dunedin, and Christchurch.
