Kane Williamson also made himself unavailable for the series, which gets under way on Sunday in Christchurch.

New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham was involved in a bizarre incident during a T20 tournament in South Africa.

Sam Billings and James Neesham produced explosive knocks while the bowlers impressed as Atlanta Kings registered a comprehensive victory over New York Lions in the National Cricket League (NCL) on Wednesday.

New Zealand had arrived in Pakistan earlier this month without a host of players missing due to the Indian Premier League, injuries and unavailability.

PAK vs NZ 3rd T20I Highlights: Mark Chapman hit an undefeated 87 to lead an under-strength New Zealand to a shock seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in the third T20I.

Michael Bracewell was named captain Wednesday on his return from more than a year out with a ruptured Achilles and broken finger in the absence of regular skipper Kane Williamson, who is playing for Gujarat Titans in the IPL.

The target of 135 was difficult for Bangladesh at first, but opener Litton Das held his nerve to anchor the chase and helped Bangladesh take a 1-0 lead over New Zealand.

Travis Head's bulldozing hundred and game awareness in crunch moments helped Australia negate a marvellous century by Rachin Ravindra to register a thrilling five-run victory over New Zealand.

Australia consolidated their place in Top 4 of the Cricket World Cup 2023 points table with a win over New Zealand.

The unique announcement video for New Zealand's ICC World Cup 2023 squad has gone viral on social media.