New Zealand Prepares for T20 World Cup with Upcoming Series in India
New Zealand's T20I Series: A Crucial Preparation
The five-match T20I series, which follows three ODIs, is a significant opportunity for New Zealand to adapt to the sub-continent's conditions ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to commence on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Mitchell Santner will take charge of the T20I team as he makes his comeback from injury, while Michael Bracewell has been designated as the captain for the ODI matches.
A mix of experienced players and promising newcomers will feature in both formats, including Jayden Lennox, Kristian Clarke, Bevon Jacobs, and Tim Robinson, alongside Michael Rae, who debuted in the second Test against the West Indies.
After recovering, Kyle Jamieson will participate in both formats, and Mark Chapman along with Matt Henry are expected to join the T20I squad.
Some players, such as Jacob Duffy, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Will O’Rourke, and Blair Tickner, have been rested or ruled out due to injury management and workload considerations, as New Zealand strategically manages their players ahead of a packed schedule, which includes the ICC World Test Championship 25-27.
As the series progresses, the T20I squad will be strengthened by the arrival of players concluding their franchise commitments, enabling New Zealand to field a nearly full-strength team before finalizing their T20 World Cup squad in mid-January.
Head coach Rob Walter emphasized the importance of touring India at this point, stating that gaining experience in spin-friendly conditions is crucial for New Zealand's World Cup aspirations.
“Playing in the sub-continent is obviously very different from what we’re accustomed to in New Zealand, so any chance to expose our players to those conditions is beneficial, especially before a T20 World Cup in the subcontinent,” he remarked, as noted by the ICC.
This tour also signifies a significant achievement for left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox, who has received his first international call-up following impressive performances for the A side, while Kristian Clarke is another uncapped player included in the ODI squad.
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.