Kristian Clarke to stay with New Zealand as a cover for T20I series, Bracewell and Milne under injury cloud

Kiwi pacer Kristian Clarke has been asked to stay with the New Zealand squad for the upcoming T20I series against India. The pacer has been added for NZ’s first three games. He was initially picked only for One Day Series but given the injuries to Milne and Clarke doing well in the ODIs meant that the coach has asked him to stay back as cover. Speaking on his inclusion, New Zealand head coach Rob Walters said “He certainly showcased his talent in the ODI series, but what was particularly impressive was his calmness and ability to perform under pressure.” Clarke played all the three one day matches and took key wickets including that of Virat Kohli.

Michael Bracewell has travelled with the New Zealand T20I team to Nagpur. He suffered a minor left-calf

strain while fielding in the third ODI match at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. He went off the field and could not bowl due to the injury. An update on the Kiwi cricketer’s involvement in the ongoing tour will be taken once they monitor the situation in the upcoming days.

Fast bowler Adam Milne has also injured his left hamstring while playing in the SA20 for the Sunrisers Eastern Cape. He is also being assessed by the team, who are determining the extent of his injury and a call will be taken. The five-match T20I series between India and New Zealand would kick off on January 21, 2026 and this series provides a good preparation for both these sides ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.

Read More : India vs New Zealand Head to Head in T20Is

New Zealand T20 squad (first three matches): Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Kristian Clarke, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Ben Lister, Daryl Mitchell, Adam Milne, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Will Young.