Ben Lister Joins New Zealand Squad for Bangladesh Tour After Kristian Clarke's Injury
Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, Ben Lister has been called up to New Zealand's squad for the Bangladesh tour, replacing the injured Kristian Clarke. With limited experience at the international level, Lister's return could be pivotal for the team.
Key Takeaways
Ben Lister replaces Kristian Clarke in the squad.
Lister last played for New Zealand over two years ago.
New Zealand will visit Bangladesh for an ODI and T20I series.
Ben Sears will miss the ODIs due to PSL commitments.
ODI matches commence on Friday in Mirpur.
Wellington, April 10 (NationPress) The New Zealand cricket team has announced the inclusion of left-arm seamer Ben Lister in their ODI and T20I squads for the forthcoming tour of Bangladesh, stepping in for the injured Kristian Clarke.
Having last represented New Zealand over two years prior, Lister joins the team after suffering a laceration to the webbing of his right hand while attempting a catch for the New Zealand A team during their second one-day match against Sri Lanka A recently.
The 30-year-old bowler has recorded four wickets in three ODIs and 11 scalps in 12 T20I matches for New Zealand. According to a statement from New Zealand Cricket (NZC), "Lister, who is also a part of the New Zealand A one-day squad in Sri Lanka, will meet up with the BLACKCAPS in Bangladesh on Sunday, ahead of the ODI series commencing in Mirpur on Friday."
Furthermore, NZC confirmed that pacer Ben Sears will miss the ODI phase of the Bangladesh tour, having been signed as a late addition by the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Rawalpindiz.
"Sears will not be replaced in the BlackCaps ODI squad for Bangladesh and is expected to join the team for the T20 series starting in Chattogram on Thursday, April 30," NZC added.
The New Zealand contingent is scheduled to depart for Bangladesh on Monday morning. The initial two ODI matches will take place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, while the final encounter will be held at the Bir Shreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Cricket Stadium in Chattogram.
Following the ODIs, the T20I series will commence, featuring consecutive matches in Chattogram on April 27 and 29, with the concluding game set for Dhaka on May 2. New Zealand arrives in Bangladesh after finishing as runners-up at the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and following a home T20I series loss to South Africa with a score of 3-2.
Point of View
Ben Lister's selection represents both an opportunity and a challenge for New Zealand cricket. His return after a significant hiatus could invigorate the team's strategy in Bangladesh, especially in light of Clarke's injury. As fans anticipate the upcoming matches, the focus remains on how well Lister can adapt and perform under pressure.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Ben Lister called up to the New Zealand squad?
Ben Lister was recalled to the New Zealand squad as a replacement for the injured Kristian Clarke.
When will the ODI series against Bangladesh start?
The ODI series against Bangladesh is set to begin in Mirpur on Friday.
What happened to Ben Sears?
Ben Sears has been ruled out of the ODI leg of the tour due to a new contract with a PSL franchise.
Where will the T20I series take place?
The T20I series will be held in Chattogram and Dhaka.
What is Ben Lister's international experience?
Ben Lister has played three ODIs and 12 T20Is, taking four and eleven wickets respectively.
