New Zealand to Play as 'Aotearoa' Against Zimbabwe

The New Zealand cricket team continues to amaze the cricket fraternity. After dazzling the world with their fearless brand of cricket, the Kiwis are set to win the hearts of the Maori tribe of their country. The Kane Williamson-led side will change their name to 'Aotearoa' for their first ODI against Zimbabwe in Harare on August 2. (Williamson to Lead New Zealand on African Safari)

The temporary change of name is to celebrate the Maori Language Week - Aotearoa is the Maori name for New Zealand. The new name will be displayed in the front of the team jersey during the game. (Australia's Sheffield Shield Game in New Zealand)

"New Zealand Cricket want to extend cricket's reach and make it more welcoming to communities not always closely aligned with the game," said the New Zealand Cricket Board's chief executive David White.

"It's something we haven't done particularly well in the past", White said, "We've been too one dimensional in our approach and especially in regard to addressing under-representation in certain communities. But we have to start somewhere."

According to the New Zealand Cricket board, the Black Caps will soon be launching new programmes to spread cricket to various parts of the country and encourage the various tribes and communities to take up the game.

"Cricket is a wonderful game that anyone can play, irrespective of age, gender, ethnicity or culture," White further added, "we just need to make sure everyone feels it's accessible and welcoming - which is part of the reason for reaching out this week."