New Zealand Name Spin-heavy Squad For T20 World Cup 2026

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New Zealand have announced a carefully balanced and spin-heavy squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. This will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7. With matches set to be played on traditionally slow and turning pitches. The Black Caps have clearly shaped their selection around the conditions they expect to face, particularly in India.

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Mitchell Santner will captain the 15-man squad, continuing his leadership role in the shortest format. A proven all-rounder and one of New Zealand’s most reliable white-ball performers, Santner brings vast experience into the tournament. Across 122 T20 internationals, he has taken 130 wickets and scored 848 runs.

Making him central to both the team’s bowling plans ...
... and lower-order batting stability. Spin is the standout feature of the squad. Alongside Santner, New Zealand have included Ish Sodhi, Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra, giving them a wide range of spin options.

This depth reflects the conditions expected at venues such as Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium, where slower surfaces traditionally assist spinners. Head coach Rob Walter emphasised this thinking, noting that the squad is well-versed in subcontinental cricket. And that such experience will be crucial during a high-pressure global event.

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T20 World Cup: Pace Depth Complements New Zealand’s Spin Attack

While spin may be the headline, New Zealand have not neglected their pace resources. The fast-bowling group is led by Jacob Duffy, who earns his first T20 World Cup call-up. He is joined by experienced campaigners Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, and Adam Milne, offering a blend of pace, swing, and death-overs expertise.

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Kyle Jamieson has been named as a travelling reserve, providing cover should any fitness concerns resurface. James Neesham adds further flexibility, capable of contributing seam bowling as well as powerful hitting down the order. The batting lineup combines aggression with composure.

Finn Allen’s explosive starts, Devon Conway’s consistency, and Daryl Mitchell’s adaptability give the top and middle order a solid foundation. Mark Chapman and Tim Seifert add further depth, while Glenn Phillips’ athleticism and all-around skills make him a valuable asset in multiple roles.

Seifert has been named the primary wicketkeeper for the tournament, though Conway is also capable behind the stumps if required. Phillips can keep wickets as well, but his off-spin and fielding ability are expected to be more valuable on turning tracks.

His bowling could play a key role. Several players will manage minor fitness and availability issues heading into the tournament. Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry are expected to take short-term paternity leave early in the competition.

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T20 World Cup Final: New Zealand Back Experience Over Recent Form

While Santner, Chapman, and Allen are recovering from small injury setbacks. Milne and Neesham have been selected despite limited recent international appearances. Underlining the selectors’ focus on experience and versatility rather than short-term form alone.

New Zealand’s group-stage journey will be a demanding one. Placed in Group D, they will face Afghanistan, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and Canada. Their campaign begins on February 8 against Afghanistan in Chennai. A side that reached the semifinals in the previous edition and is known for its strong spin attack.

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The Black Caps will then play the UAE at the same venue on February 10 before travelling to Ahmedabad to take on South Africa, last year’s finalists. Their final group match will see them head to Canada, adding further logistical and environmental challenges.

As preparation, New Zealand will tour India before the World Cup, playing three One Day Internationals and five T20 Internationals. This series is designed to help players adapt to local conditions and fine-tune combinations ahead of the tournament.

One notable omission from the World Cup squad is top-order batter Tim Robinson. Despite his recent unbeaten century against Australia in a losing cause. Robinson will still feature in the five-match T20 series against India as part of the wider touring group, but he will not remain for the World Cup.

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