Latham out of Wellington T20I; Neesham to lead

Tom Latham has been ruled out of the fourth T20I against South Africa with an injury, New Zealand Cricket announced on Sunday. Tom Blundell, who last featured in a T20I in April 2025, has been called in as cover for the Wellington encounter.

Latham was struck on the thumb by South African pacer Nqobani Mokoena during the third T20I, at Eden Park on Friday. Latham, however, continued batting and struck an unbeaten 63, helping the side to an eight wicket win.

In a release, NZC stated that Medical staff at the ground assessed Latham's thumb post-match, and he was subsequently flown to Christchurch the morning after the match for scans. Latham's involvement in fifth T20I vs South Africa will be determined after the results of his scans are revealed.

James Neesham will lead the side in Latham's absence. It will be the first time in the all-rounder's decade-long career where he will lead the side, becoming the 12th New Zealander to captain the team in T20Is.

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