New Zealand have officially announced their 15-member squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, naming a balanced and experienced lineup for the mega tournament set to be held in India and Sri Lanka. The squad features a strong mix of seasoned campaigners and in-form players, with fast bowler Jacob Duffy earning a well-deserved call-up after an outstanding year in international cricket.
The announcement confirms New Zealand’s intent to challenge strongly in the tournament, relying on depth in both pace and all-round options.
New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 Squad
Here is the officially announced Blackcaps squad:
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Mitchell Santner (Captain)
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Finn Allen
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Michael Bracewell
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Mark Chapman
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Devon Conway
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Jacob Duffy
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Daryl Mitchell
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Matt Henry
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Lockie Ferguson
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Adam Milne
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James Neesham
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Glenn Phillips
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Ish Sodhi
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Tim Seifert
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Rachin Ravindra
Kyle Jamieson has been named as the traveling reserve fast bowler.
Jacob Duffy’s Remarkable Rise
The inclusion of Jacob Duffy is one of the biggest highlights of the squad. The 31-year-old pacer has enjoyed a sensational 2025 season, where he picked up 81 international wickets, breaking the long-standing New Zealand record previously held by Sir Richard Hadlee.
Duffy also climbed to No. 2 in the ICC T20 bowling rankings, cementing his place among the world’s elite white-ball bowlers. His selection strengthens an already formidable pace attack.
Strong Pace and All-Round Depth
New Zealand’s bowling unit looks particularly threatening, featuring experienced names such as Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, and James Neesham. Spin responsibilities will be handled by Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi, offering control and variation in subcontinent conditions.
The squad also boasts solid all-round depth, with players like Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, and Rachin Ravindra providing flexibility in team combinations.
Injury Updates Before the Tournament
Several players are currently undergoing treatment for minor injuries, including:
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Finn Allen (finger/hamstring)
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Mark Chapman (ankle)
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Lockie Ferguson (calf)
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Matt Henry (calf)
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Mitchell Santner (adductor)
Team management has expressed confidence that all players will be fully fit before the tournament begins. Ferguson and Henry may briefly leave the squad during the event due to paternity commitments but are expected to rejoin as planned.
New Zealand’s Group in T20 World Cup 2026
New Zealand have been placed in Group D, where they will compete against:
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Afghanistan
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South Africa
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United Arab Emirates
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Canada
The group presents a competitive challenge, with matches expected to test both experience and adaptability.
Tournament Schedule and Venues
The ICC T20 World Cup 2026 will be played from 7 February to 8 March 2026, with matches hosted across India and Sri Lanka. Subcontinent conditions are expected to play a major role in team strategies and squad rotations.
Final Words
The announcement of the New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 squad reflects a well-thought-out selection strategy focused on form, experience, and balance. With a powerful bowling attack, versatile all-rounders, and match-winning batters, the Blackcaps look well-prepared to make a deep run in the tournament.
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