New Zealand have suffered a significant setback ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with experienced fast bowler Adam Milne ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.
The Black Caps confirmed on Friday that Milne sustained a torn left hamstring while representing Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the ongoing SA20 league in South Africa. Medical scans later revealed the tear to be severe, forcing the 32-year-old pacer to miss the entire World Cup, which begins in early February.
Milne’s injury comes just a fortnight before the global showpiece gets underway in India and Sri Lanka, dealing a blow to New Zealand’s pace resources at a crucial stage of their preparations.
Jamieson steps in as replacement
New Zealand Cricket has moved swiftly, naming Kyle Jamieson as Milne’s replacement in the main squad. Jamieson was initially selected as the travelling reserve and is already with the team on their white-ball tour of India.
Head coach Rob Walter admitted the group was disappointed to lose Milne so close to the tournament.
“We’re all gutted for Adam,” Walter said. “He’d worked incredibly hard to get himself ready for the tournament and was looking back to his best in his eight games for the Eastern Cape Sunrisers.
“It’s unfortunate timing, and we wish him a speedy recovery.”
New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 Squad (Updated)
Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi
Milne’s strong SA20 form cut short
Before the injury, Milne had been enjoying an impressive SA20 campaign, picking up 11 wickets at an average of 16.27 while maintaining an economy rate of 7.61 — form that had put him firmly in New Zealand’s plans for the World Cup.
His pace and ability to strike early were expected to play a key role on subcontinental pitches, particularly in the powerplay.
Jamieson brings experience and height advantage
Walter backed Jamieson to slot in seamlessly, highlighting his recent performances and familiarity with conditions.
“It’s great that Kyle is already with us here in India,” Walter added.
“He’s an integral part of our pace-bowling group and has hit the ground running on this tour. He brings a strong skill set and valuable experience that will hold him in good stead for the tournament.”
Jamieson recently returned to international cricket after a long injury layoff and impressed with a career-best 4 for 41 in the opening ODI against India earlier this month.
Squad changes window still open
New Zealand can make squad changes freely until January 31, after which any replacements will require approval from the International Cricket Council (ICC). Walter also confirmed that a replacement travelling reserve will be named in due course.
The Black Caps will open their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Afghanistan in Chennai on February 8, as they continue their pursuit of a first-ever men’s T20 world title.
