After breaking his finger and rupturing his right Achilles while playing for Worcestershire in the T20 Blast in June, Bracewell hasn't represented New Zealand since March of last year. He just won the Plunket Shield with a career-best 8 for 41.
He will be in charge of a team that is devoid of nine players who are serving in the Indian Premier League, Will Young, who has signed a contract with Nottinghamshire abroad, Tom Latham, who is expecting his second child, and Tim Southee, who was left off the roster in order to give him more time to recover from his home season.
"Michael has faced a long period on the sideline and it's exciting to see him back playing cricket again, the fact he's back playing at a high level after an Achilles rupture is testament to his hard work and application. He's a well-respected leader and has captaincy experience for Wellington along with New Zealand A and New Zealand XI teams, which we believe holds him in good stead to lead the group in Pakistan." selector Sam Wells said.