New Zealand Prepares for T20 World Cup with Upcoming Series in Sub-Continent

New Zealand is set to embark on a crucial five-match T20I series in the sub-continent, following three ODIs, as part of their preparations for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. With Mitchell Santner leading the T20I side and Michael Bracewell at the helm for ODIs, the squad features a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents. The tour is seen as an essential opportunity for acclimatization to spin-friendly conditions, vital for their World Cup ambitions. Coach Rob Walter emphasizes the importance of this exposure, while new players like Jayden Lennox earn their first international call-ups. The series promises to be a significant step in New Zealand's cricket journey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 23, 2025, 23:29 IST

Significance of the T20I Series

The upcoming five-match T20I series, following three ODIs, is a vital chance for New Zealand to adapt to the sub-continent's playing conditions ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which is set to commence on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Leadership and Player Selection

Mitchell Santner will captain the T20I team as he makes his comeback from injury, while Michael Bracewell takes the helm for the ODI matches. The squad sees the return of several experienced players alongside promising newcomers like Jayden Lennox, Kristian Clarke, Bevon Jacobs, and Tim Robinson, as well as Michael Rae, who debuted in the second Test against the West Indies. Kyle Jamieson is included in both formats after recovering, and Mark Chapman and Matt Henry are expected to join the T20I squad. Some players, including Jacob Duffy, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Will O'Rourke, and Blair Tickner, have been rested or sidelined due to injury management and workload considerations, as New Zealand strategically manages player fitness ahead of a packed schedule that includes the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27.

Strengthening the T20I Squad

As the series progresses, New Zealand will enhance their T20I squad with players who are concluding their commitments in franchise leagues, enabling them to field a nearly complete team before finalizing their T20 World Cup roster in mid-January.

Coach's Insights on the Tour

Head coach Rob Walter emphasized the importance of this tour to India, stating that adapting to spin-friendly conditions is crucial for New Zealand's World Cup aspirations. He remarked, "Playing in the sub-continent is obviously very different from what we're used to in New Zealand, so any opportunity we can get to expose our guys to those conditions can only be beneficial, especially ahead of a T20 World Cup in the subcontinent."

New Faces in the Squad

This tour also represents a significant achievement for left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox, who has received his first international call-up following impressive performances for the A team. Kristian Clarke is another uncapped player included in the ODI squad.

Full Squads for T20I and ODI

New Zealand T20I Squad:

Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Ish Sodhi.

New Zealand ODI Squad:

Michael Bracewell (captain), Adi Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, Will Young.