NZ vs IND: New Zealand Suffer Double Injury Blow Ahead of T20I Series, Name Replacements

New Zealand Suffer Double Injury Blow Ahead of India T20Is; Clarkson, Tickner Named Replacements

New Zealand have been dealt a double injury setback ahead of their five-match T20I series against India, with Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes ruled out of the upcoming fixtures. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed on Friday that Chapman had sustained a hamstring injury, while Foulkes was sidelined with a hip flexor problem.

Chapman suffered a tear in his left hamstring while featuring in the inaugural edition of the European T20 Premier League (ETPL). Although the injury will keep him out of the T20I series against India, the batter is expected to recover in time for the subsequent five-match ODI series.

Foulkes picked up an injury to his right hip flexor during a training session with Canterbury. However, his return date remains uncertain, as the team management continues to assess his recovery.

To fill the vacancies, New Zealand have called up all-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner. Head coach Rob Walter welcomed the duo’s inclusion, expressing confidence in their ability to contribute to the team during the demanding series.

“I’m gutted for Mark and Zak and I wish them both a smooth recovery,” Walter said.

“We’re fortunate to be able to lean on the expertise of Josh and Blair. I know they’re both very excited to be involved in what’s shaping up to be an epic T20 series.”

The five-match T20I series is scheduled to begin on October 22, with India and New Zealand set to renew their rivalry following their meeting in the T20 World Cup final earlier this year. India won the title clash and will aim to maintain their winning momentum against the Black Caps.

Mitchell Santner will lead New Zealand in the T20I series, with the squad featuring a combination of experienced campaigners and promising young players. Openers Tim Seifert and Finn Allen are expected to play important roles, while the team will also rely on its all-rounders and bowling resources to challenge the Indian side.

The T20I matches will be played across Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland and Hamilton. The limited-overs contest will be followed by a five-match ODI series and two Test matches, making it an extensive tour for the Indian team.

New Zealand Squad for India T20I Series

Mitchell Santner (captain), 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 and Blair Tickner.