New Zealand pace duo among players returning from injury ahead of global tournament

New Zealand fast bowlers Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry could miss short periods of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup after being granted potential paternity leave, while both also continue their recovery from recent injuries.

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The two pacers, who are returning from calf issues, have been named in New Zealand’s 15-member squad for the tournament. Ferguson has not featured for New Zealand since November 2024, while Henry has also been managing fitness concerns. They are joined by several other players currently on return-to-play programs, including Finn Allen (finger/hamstring), Mark Chapman (ankle), and captain Mitchell Santner (adductor).

In a statement, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed that all injured players are progressing well. “Those carrying injuries are undergoing respective return-to-play plans and are currently on track to be fit for the tournament,” the release said. NZC also noted that with Ferguson’s and Henry’s partners expected to give birth during the World Cup window, both players are likely to be granted short-term paternity leave if required.

Experienced quick Adam Milne, who last played international cricket in July, has also been included in the squad, alongside allrounder James Neesham. Seam bowler Jacob Duffy is set to make his first World Cup appearance, while Kyle Jamieson has been named as a travelling reserve.

Top-order batter Tim Robinson, despite scoring a century against Australia last October, misses out due to competition for batting slots. The selectors have opted for Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Tim Seifert, with Seifert set to handle wicketkeeping duties and Conway providing backup.

Head coach Rob Walter emphasized the importance of squad balance. “We’ve got plenty of power and skill in the batting, quality bowlers who can adapt to conditions, plus five all-rounders who all bring something slightly different,” he said. “This is an experienced group, and the players are no strangers to playing in the subcontinent, which will be valuable.”

New Zealand have been placed in Group D, alongside Afghanistan, South Africa, Canada, and the UAE. They will begin their World Cup campaign on February 8 in Chennai against Afghanistan. In preparation, New Zealand will play five T20 Internationals against India, following a three-match ODI series.

New Zealand Squad for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup:

Mitchell Santner (capt), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Adam Milne, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi