Sun Jan 12 06:26:02 UTC 2025: ## Santner to Lead Black Caps in Champions Trophy Charge

**Auckland, New Zealand –** Mitchell Santner will captain New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, leading a pace-heavy squad aiming for glory in Pakistan and the UAE. The 15-man squad, announced Sunday, features the return of fast bowlers Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears, alongside tournament debutants Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, and Will O’Rourke.

Santner, appointed white-ball captain last month, will spearhead a team boasting a strong batting line-up including Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson, and Daryl Mitchell. Williamson, along with Santner and Tom Blundell, are the only remaining players from New Zealand’s 2017 Champions Trophy squad. Matt Henry will lead the pace attack following the international retirements of Trent Boult and Tim Southee.

Coach Gary Stead acknowledged the tough selection process, stating, “We’re currently blessed with a lot of quality players…We’ve gone with the squad that will offer us the best options to perform well in the expected conditions in Pakistan and the UAE.”

Ferguson’s inclusion marks a return after playing in the Big Bash League, while Sears recovers from a knee injury. O’Rourke and Smith earned their spots through strong performances in recent series against England and Sri Lanka. Jacob Duffy has been named as a travelling reserve.

Before the tournament begins on February 19th, the Black Caps will participate in warm-up matches against Pakistan, South Africa, and Afghanistan. New Zealand, winners of the inaugural Champions Trophy in 2000, will be aiming to add another title to their collection.

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