New Zealand have been dealt a blow ahead of their home T20I series against Indiawith injuries forcing changes to their squad. The five-match series begins in Christchurch on October 22, giving the hosts limited time to finalise their plans before the opening game. Head coach Rob Walter expressed his disappointment over the injuries but remained confident in the players available to step in. The team has called up two replacements to fill the vacant spots in the squad.
Rob Walter reacts as injuries rule out two players
Walter said he was gutted for the injured players and wished them a smooth recovery. He also welcomed the opportunity to call on experienced players to fill the gaps, adding that he expected an exciting T20I series against India. Mark Chapman sustained a tear in his left hamstring while playing in the European T20 Premier League last month.
He is, however, on track to be available for New Zealand’s ODI series against India. Zak Foulkesmeanwhile, injured his right hip flexor during a Canterbury training session. His return timeline remains uncertain, leaving New Zealand without the fast bowler for the upcoming T20Is.
New Zealand announce changes to their T20I squad
All-rounder Josh Clarkson has been called up to replace Chapman, while fast bowler Blair Tickner will take Foulkes’ place in the squad. The updated squad will be led by Mitchell Santner as New Zealand prepare for the five-match series, which begins in Christchurch on October 22. The hosts will look to make the most of their home advantage against a strong Indian side.
India have also strengthened their squad for the series, recalling Bhuvneshwar Kumar to the T20I setup for the first time in four years. The experienced fast bowler last played a T20I against New Zealand in 2022 and has enjoyed strong wicket-taking form in the IPL.
Updated New Zealand T20I squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner.
