Tom Latham to lead Black Caps in Ireland

Wellington [New Zealand], Apr. 6 (ANI): Tom Latham will lead New Zealand for the first time in next month's ODI tri-series against Ireland and Bangladesh ahead of the Champions Trophy. New Zealand Cricket said in a statement that the 25-year-old opening batsman will step in for regukar skipper Kane Williamson, who is playing in the ongoing 10th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Vice-captain Tim Southee will also be playing in the IPL when the triangular series starts in Ireland on the 12th of next month. Latham, who will lead the side in the opening match against Ireland on May 14 in Dublin, will become the 22nd player to lead New Zealand in the ODI format. The Kiwis have named three potential debutants and have recalled four players in the 15-man squad. New Zealand selector Gavin Larsen said the absence of senior players was an opportunity to give new players a taste of international cricket. "Tom has been a leader within the side for a while now and this is a chance to continue his development in that area," said Larsen. "At 25 years old Tom is still a youthful captain, but he's performed the role well for Canterbury and New Zealand Under-19 in the past. With the likes of Ross and Luke in the squad, there also are some experienced players to help support him." "It's a great learning opportunity for Tom and a chance for other squad members to take on a bigger leadership role too," he added. New Zealand squad for Ireland tri-series: Tom Latham (capt,wk), Hamish Bennett, Neil Broom, Scott Kuggeleijn, Colin Munro, James Neesham, Henry Nicholls, Jeetan Patel*, Seth Rance, Luke Ronchi, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, George Worker Jeetan Patel will join squad for the 4th ODI from Warwickshire. (ANI)