Mitch Hay, who missed the first call from New Zealand selector Sam Wells, was preparing to bat during a Canterbury T20 game at Hagley Oval when he got the news of his maiden call-up for the white-ball series in Sri Lanka. Initially, Hay’s mother thought it might be a prank, but his coach, Peter Fulton, had seen it coming. After their intra-squad game, Fulton asked Hay if he’d received any good news, and Hay smiled, confirming the selection. Hay is regarded as a talented wicketkeeper-batter, boasting an impressive average of 46 from 19 first-class games and a strike rate of nearly 149 in T20s. His diverse batting skills and calm demeanor under pressure make him a valuable asset for New Zealand. Hay’s performance in recent matches, including his 73 off 31 balls and 38 off 28, showcased his power and versatility, earning him recognition. Hay’s experience with spin in Chennai will be crucial for his success in Sri Lanka, where slow pitches and skilled spinners await. Despite the challenges, his determination and preparation position him well for his international debut.
