New Zealand have named a spin-focused squad for next month’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, with captain Mitchell Santner set to lead the side. The selection reflects conditions in the subcontinent, where spin is expected to play a decisive role.
Three of New Zealand’s four group-stage matches will be played at the spin-friendly Chepauk Stadium in Chennai, a venue well known to several squad members. Former and current Chennai Super Kings players Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, and Santner bring valuable experience of local conditions.
Santner will spearhead the spin attack alongside Ish Sodhi, New Zealand’s second-highest T20I wicket-taker. The spin department is further strengthened by all-rounders Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Ravindra, giving the Black Caps multiple bowling options.
Despite the emphasis on spin, head coach Rob Walter has also selected a strong pace unit. Jacob Duffy, the ICC’s second-ranked T20I bowler, will feature in his first World Cup, supported by Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, and Adam Milne. Kyle Jamieson will travel as pace-bowling cover, while Jimmy Neesham provides balance as a seam-bowling all-rounder.
The batting lineup includes Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Tim Seifert, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell, offering a blend of power and experience. Seifert will take on wicketkeeping duties.
Walter highlighted the balance of the squad, noting its mix of power hitters, adaptable bowlers, and versatile all-rounders. He added that the team’s experience in subcontinent conditions would be a key advantage.
Most of the squad is already en route to India, where New Zealand will play three ODIs and five T20Is against India as part of their build-up. The Black Caps will also face the United States in a World Cup warm-up match before beginning group-stage encounters against Afghanistan, Canada, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates.
Walter expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, citing a strong run of T20 cricket, including international series, domestic competitions, and franchise leagues, along with the upcoming challenging tour of India.
New Zealand Squad:
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.
