New Zealand have officially named all-rounder Michael Bracewell as the replacement for Glenn Phillips, who has been ruled out due to injury, for the upcoming first Test against Zimbabwe. The match is scheduled to take place in Bulawayo, beginning July 30, 2025.
Why the Change Was Made
- Glenn Phillips Injury: Glenn Phillips suffered a right groin injury during the final of Major League Cricket and was subsequently ruled out of the entire Test series.
- Michael Bracewell’s Inclusion: Bracewell, who was initially unavailable due to commitments with the Southern Brave in The Hundred, was already present in Zimbabwe as part of the T20I squad. This made him an accessible and strategic like-for-like replacement.
Significance of Bracewell’s Selection
- Experience: Bracewell brings valuable all-round experience to the side, having played eight Tests for New Zealand since his debut in 2022.
- Balance: According to New Zealand head coach Rob Walter, Bracewell’s skillset allows the team to maintain the same balance in the XI that Phillips would have provided.
- Short-Term Move: Bracewell is set to feature only in the first Test, after which he will return to the UK to rejoin The Hundred. New Zealand will decide on a replacement for the second Test after the conclusion of the opening match.
Series Details
- 1st Test: July 30 – August 3, 2025 | Bulawayo
- 2nd Test: August 7 – 11, 2025 | Bulawayo
Official Statement
“Glenn’s injury provided a gap in the Test squad and Michael is the closest like-for-like replacement. Michael’s experience and skillset will be a great asset and allows us to keep the same balance of the team.”
— Rob Walter, New Zealand Head Coach
Summary Table
| Player Out | Replacement | Reason | Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glenn Phillips | Michael Bracewell | Groin injury | 1st Test vs Zimbabwe (July 30–Aug 3) |
New Zealand now look to keep their squad balanced as they begin the two-match Test series, with Bracewell’s inclusion shaping the team’s prospects for the opening encounter against Zimbabwe.
