New Zealand’s build-up to the upcoming T20 World Cup has been dealt an early blow. With two key players picking up injuries just weeks before the tournament begins in India and Sri Lanka on February 7. Fast bowler Adam Milne and all-rounder Michael Bracewell are both sidelined.
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After suffering separate injuries while on international and franchise duty. The setbacks have forced New Zealand Cricket (NZC) into adjusting as the team balances fitness concerns with preparations for a demanding schedule. Milne sustained a left hamstring injury while bowling for Sunrisers Eastern Cape in South Africa’s SA20 league on Sunday.
NZC confirmed on Tuesday that the pacer is undergoing medical assessment to determine the severity of the issue and the timeline for his recovery. Hamstring injuries are particularly concerning for fast bowlers. Bracewell, meanwhile, picked up a left calf strain while fielding during the third and final One-Day International against India in Indore on Sunday.
The all-rounder has been a vital part of New Zealand’s white-ball setup, offering balance with both bat and ball. NZC said Bracewell will be treated and closely monitored over the coming days before a final decision is made on his continued involvement in the tour.
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T20 World Cup 2026: New Zealand Move Quickly to Cover Injury Concerns
With injuries already disrupting plans, New Zealand have moved quickly to ensure adequate cover. All-rounder Kristian Clarke has been added to the squad for the first three T20 Internationals of the five-match series against India, which begins on Wednesday. His inclusion is aimed at bolstering the pace-bowling resources during a period of heavy player movement.
Head coach Rob Walter acknowledged the challenges facing the squad. Noting that several players are arriving from different competitions and recovery phases. He said the team wanted to make sure they had enough fast-bowling options early in the series. Especially with some players returning from injury and others joining directly from franchise leagues.
Walter added that the call-up presents a valuable opportunity for Clarke, who is on his first tour of India. The coach praised Clarke’s performances in the recent ODI series. Highlighting not just his skill but also his composure under pressure, a quality.
That becomes even more important in subcontinent conditions. New Zealand will begin their T20 World Cup campaign in Group D, opening against Afghanistan in Chennai on February 8. A fixture that is expected to test their adaptability and squad depth. While New Zealand deals with injury concerns, Pakistan are facing selection debates of their own.
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T20 World Cup Final: Haris Rauf Likely to Miss T20 World Cup Squad
Sources indicate that fast bowler Haris Rauf is likely to be left out of Pakistan’s squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Despite being the country’s leading wicket-taker in the format. Rauf last played a T20I for Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final against India.
A match that appears to have weighed heavily on the selectors’ minds. In that game, the right-arm pacer conceded 50 runs in just 3.4 overs without taking a wicket, as India chased down a modest 147-run target with ease to lift the trophy.
According to sources, head coach Mike Hesson is not in favour of Rauf’s inclusion following that performance. Despite his impressive overall record of 133 wickets in 94 T20Is, consistency and recent form appear to be key factors in the decision-making process.
Rauf is currently playing in Australia’s Big Bash League, representing the Melbourne Stars. Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing regarding Pakistan’s final squad for the World Cup and the upcoming home T20I series against Australia.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has already submitted a preliminary list of players to the ICC. Although changes can still be made without approval until January 31. Probable squad members include captain Salman Ali Agha, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Saim Ayub and Mohammad Nawaz, among others.
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