Jacobs set to make debut appearance for New Zealand in T20 series

New Zealand's formidable batsman Bevon Jacobs has received his first call-up for the T20 series against Sri Lanka, which will also inaugurate Mitchell Santner's role as captain for the white-ball format.

Jacobs has garnered attention since his impressive debut in domestic cricket last year and was unexpectedly selected by the Mumbai Indians during the recent Indian Premier League auction.

The Blackcaps are set to compete against Sri Lanka in a series of three T20 matches beginning Saturday in Mount Maunganui, followed by a three-match ODI series starting January 5, which will serve as their final preparation before the Champions Trophy in Pakistan.

Jacobs has been named exclusively in the T20 squad.

"This is undoubtedly an exciting moment for Bevon and his family," remarked selector Sam Wells.

"He is a talented player with significant potential, and we are eager to introduce him to the international stage.

"His batting power is evident, and he has also demonstrated solid technique and temperament in longer formats."

Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, and Matt Henry are making their return to the white-ball squads after missing last month's tour to Sri Lanka in order to prepare for the recently concluded Test series against England.

Henry will lead a youthful pace attack that features Zac Foulkes, Will O'Rourke, Jacob Duffy, and all-rounder Nathan Smith.

Santner will serve as the primary spin option, supported by all-rounders Ravindra, Michael Bracewell, and Glenn Phillips.

Kane Williamson and Devon Conway are currently participating in South Africa's SA20 competition and are unavailable, while Ben Sears (knee) and Kyle Jamieson (back) are still recovering from injuries.

T20 squad: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Nathan Smith.

The ODI team comprises the following players: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Mitch Hay, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, and Will Young.