Michael Bracewell Named as Replacement for Glenn Phillips in New Zealand’s First Test vs Zimbabwe

Injury Blow for New Zealand as Glenn Phillips Ruled Out; Bracewell Steps In

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has confirmed that Michael Bracewell will replace Glenn Phillips for the first Test against Zimbabwe following the latter’s injury during the Major League Cricket (MLC) final. Phillips sustained a right groin injury that requires several weeks of recovery, ruling him out of the two-match Test series in Zimbabwe.

A Timely Call-Up for Michael Bracewell

Initially unavailable due to commitments with Southern Brave in The Hundred, Bracewell’s selection comes as a well-timed boost for the Black Caps. He is currently with the T20I squad in Zimbabwe and is match-fit, making him a logical replacement. Head coach Rob Walter emphasized Bracewell’s all-round ability and experience, calling him a “like-for-like” substitute for Phillips. Michael’s an experienced player who offers balance to the squad. With Glenn out, it made sense to include someone who’s already in Zimbabwe and ready to go,” said Walter.

Michael Bracewell – Returning to Test Cricket

Bracewell, who debuted in Tests in 2022, has played 8 Tests so far. He has shown promise with both bat and ball:

• Batting: 259 runs at an average of 19.92
• Bowling: 24 wickets at 41.79
• Notable Moment: Match-winning 4/75 vs Pakistan in Karachi (2022)

His last Test appearance came in March 2023 against Sri Lanka, where he picked up wickets and contributed vital lower-order runs. While he was not initially included in the Test squad due to franchise commitments, the unexpected injury to Phillips brought him back into the red-ball fold.

Glenn Phillips’ Injury Timeline

Phillips was injured during the MLC final in the U.S., where he represented the Texas Super Kings. The groin injury, described by NZC’s medical staff as “moderate,” will keep him out for at least 3–4 weeks. It’s a significant blow considering Phillips’ growing stature in Test cricket, particularly after his gritty performances against Bangladesh and Australia earlier this year.

This injury also means he’ll miss out on the three-team T20 tri-series preceding the Zimbabwe Tests and could be in doubt for New Zealand’s September assignments.

Zimbabwe Tour – A Stepping Stone for New Talent

The two-match Test series against Zimbabwe, while not part of the World Test Championship, offers New Zealand a chance to test bench strength and blood fresh talent in subcontinental conditions. With senior players like Kane Williamson and Tim Southee rested, the tour leans heavily on new faces and experienced fringe players.

Alongside Bracewell, the squad includes uncapped bowlers Jacob Duffy and Matt Fisher, and all-rounder Nathan Smith. Their inclusion signals NZC’s long-term planning for future WTC cycles.

Full Squad for First Test – Bulawayo (July 30–Aug 3, 2025)

What This Means for NZC and Bracewell

For Bracewell, this is an opportunity to reignite his red-ball career and stake a stronger claim for a more consistent place in the Test setup. For NZC, it provides valuable insight into squad depth and the viability of rotating players between formats and franchise duties.

Should Bracewell perform well, selectors may reconsider his exclusion from longer formats moving forward — especially with a WTC cycle looming.

Future Availability

Bracewell is expected to return to England to fulfill his commitment with Southern Brave post the first Test. NZC has kept their options open for the second Test, with a decision likely based on form, team balance, and availability.

Summary

New Zealand has drafted Michael Bracewell into their Test squad to replace the injured Glenn Phillips for the opening Test against Zimbabwe. With Phillips sidelined due to a groin strain, Bracewell — already present in Zimbabwe — offers a seamless and balanced addition. As the first Test begins in Bulawayo on July 30, fans and selectors alike will be watching closely to see how Bracewell seizes this opportunity.