New Zealand have opted for experience and balance as they announced their squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with Mitchell Santner set to lead a group well-versed in global tournaments and subcontinental conditions.
The biggest talking point is the inclusion of fast bowler Jacob Duffy, whose outstanding 2025 has earned him his maiden World Cup call-up. Currently ranked second in the ICC T20I bowling rankings, Duffy enjoyed a prolific year across formats, claiming 81 international wickets and establishing himself as one of the most reliable pace options in world cricket.
Santner’s appointment as captain adds further stability to the Black Caps’ campaign. The left-arm spinner is preparing for his ninth senior ICC global event, a milestone that underlines his longevity and importance within the side. Fellow spinner Ish Sodhi also returns to the World Cup stage, a decade on from the pair featuring together in the same tournament in India.
Pace firepower and all-round depth
New Zealand’s pace attack looks formidable, with Duffy joining Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry and Adam Milne. Jimmy Neesham provides an all-round pace option, while the spin department is strengthened by the presence of Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips and Rachin Ravindra, all of whom offer flexibility with both bat and ball.
Tim Seifert has been named as the wicketkeeper, while Kyle Jamieson will travel with the squad as a pace-bowling reserve. Jamieson’s role could prove important during the tournament, with both Ferguson and Henry expected to take short-term paternity leave should family commitments arise.
A squad built for subcontinental conditions
New head coach Rob Walter believes the balance of the squad will be key as New Zealand prepare for conditions in India.
“World Cups are special, and there are few better places to play one than India,” Walter said. “The balance of the squad is critical. We’ve got power and skill in the batting, bowlers who can adapt to conditions, and five all-rounders who all bring something different.
“This is an experienced group and the players are no strangers to playing in the sub-continent, which will be valuable.”
New Zealand squad – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
Mitchell Santner (c), 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
Travelling reserve: Kyle Jamieson
Group D challenge ahead
New Zealand have been placed in Group D alongside Afghanistan, South Africa, Canada and the UAE. The Black Caps will begin their campaign on February 8 in Chennai against Afghanistan, a fixture that promises to be a stern early test.
With proven performers, a strong bowling attack and depth in all-round options, New Zealand head into the T20 World Cup 2026 as one of the most settled and competitive sides in the tournament.
