New Zealand Faces Setback as Key Player Mark Chapman is Ruled Out of Second ODI


The Pakistan team, which has already suffered a loss in the T20 series and trails 0-1 in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand, may have found a golden opportunity for a comeback. In a key development, Mark Chapman, who was pivotal in New Zealand's victory in the first ODI, has been ruled out of the second ODI due to a right hamstring injury.

Chapman, who scored an impressive 132 runs in the first ODI, will miss the upcoming match in Hamilton after suffering a grade one tear to his hamstring while fielding. This is a significant blow to New Zealand, especially since Chapman’s knock was instrumental in their 73-run win in Napier.

Key Absences for New Zealand

Chapman’s absence adds to a growing list of notable players who are missing from the series. Along with Chapman, Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Mitchell Santner, Lockie Ferguson, Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, and Matt Henry are all unavailable for the series. Most of these players are either participating in the IPL or involved in commentary roles, significantly weakening New Zealand's lineup.

This leaves an opportunity for Pakistan, as the absence of nine top-tier players could tilt the balance in their favor. With the second ODI scheduled for April 2 in Hamilton, Pakistan has a crucial chance to level the series and keep their hopes of a series win alive.

Pakistan's task ahead: They must capitalize on this opportunity and improve their performance after their loss in the first ODI to stay competitive in the series.