New Zealand Reveal Squad for West Indies T20I Series
New Zealand prepares for next year's ICC Men's T20 World Cup with a five-match T20I series against the West Indies at home. The squad announcement revealed several key players sidelined due to injury.
Injured Players Missing from the Squad
- Finn Allen (foot)
- Lockie Ferguson (hamstring)
- Adam Milne (ankle)
- Glenn Phillips (groin)
- Ben Sears (hamstring)
Selected Players and Leadership
Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson and spinner Ish Sodhi are included for the series beginning in Auckland on Wednesday. Former captain Kane Williamson is absent, having retired from T20 international cricket recently. All-rounder Mitchell Santner returns as captain.
Rising Talent and Team Strategy
Uncapped pacer Nathan Smith is part of the squad and may debut during the series. Meanwhile, quick Matt Henry is excluded to focus on upcoming ODI and Test formats against the West Indies.
Coach's Perspective
“It’s great to have five opportunities to take on a dangerous side like the West Indies,” said New Zealand coach Rob Walter, emphasizing the importance of this preparatory series before the T20 World Cup.
Context for the Series
This series will be New Zealand's last before the T20 World Cup scheduled in India and Sri Lanka early next year.
Summary: New Zealand's reduced squad faces the West Indies in a crucial five-match T20I series to sharpen their skills ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, with leadership changes and new talent in focus.