New Zealand Cricket (NZC) officially signaled a transition for the white-ball teams, announcing a mix of experienced leaders and fresh faces for their high-stakes tours. India In January 2026. With T20 World Cup 2026 The upcoming tour in February serves as the final litmus test for the Black Caps in subcontinental conditions. While the T20I side will see the return of established stars, the ODI squad is set to test its depth with two uncapped players and a new captain at the helm. This dual squad announcement highlights NZC’s careful management of player workloads, balancing franchise commitments and injury recovery against the need to prepare for a full-strength World Cup.
Leadership change in New Zealand squad: Split captaincy for India series
In a remarkable move, New Zealand appointed separate captains for the two legs of the tour to manage injuries and individual schedules. Michael Bracewell will lead the ODI side by stepping up for Mitchell SantnerRested for the 50-over format as part of a controlled return to action plan following a groin injury.
Bracewell, who has become a vital cog for New Zealand, will be supported by an experienced leadership team. Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell. However, Santner will return to leadership duties for the five-match T20I series, a format in which his tactical insight on spin-friendly Indian tracks is considered invaluable. Head coach Rob Walter Emphasizing that the T20I series is a priority, he expressed the vital importance of exposure to subcontinental conditions before the world event begins in February.
“Jayden has been an established player of interest for some time and has good New Zealand ‘A’ experience under his belt. He has been one of the best performers in white-ball cricket domestically for several seasons in a row. Playing on the subcontinent is very different to what we are used to in New Zealand, so we can take any opportunity, especially before these conditions. The T20 World Cup on the subcontinent. “Blackcaps” reports with reference to NZ head coach Rob Walter.
New Zealand white ball teams for India series
The squad announcement begins with the introduction of the Central Districts left-arm spinner Jayden LennoxEarned his first international call-up for the ODI series with uncapped Christian Clarke. Their inclusion follows prominent inland seasons where they have been identified as key prospects for subcontinental conditions.
Meanwhile, Kyle Jamieson makes a much-anticipated return to both white-ball squads after long-term injury layoffs. The T20I squad also welcomes back Matt Henry and Mark Chapmann, both recently returning from calf and ankle injuries. These squads reflect a clear strategy of prioritizing T20 preparation while blooding the next generation of ODI talent during a busy international window.
New Zealand ODI Squad:
Michael Bracewell (c), Adi Ashok, Christian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay (wk), Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, Will Young.
New Zealand T20I Squad:
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway (wk), Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Ish Sodhi.
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The reason behind the absence of New Zealand powerhouses Kane Williamson and Jacob Duffy
The most talked about point in the announcement is the absence of the former captain Kane Williamson from the ODI series. NZC confirmed that Williamson will not be able to play the 50-plus matches due to commitments. Durban Super Giants In the SA20 league, it clashes directly with the tour of India.
Likewise, Tom Latham will miss the ODI series to stay in New Zealand for the birth of her third child. This opened the door for players who matured as deficiencies Bevon Jacobs and Tim Robinsonboth were rewarded for productive domestic seasons. The T20I squad will be further strengthened with the arrival of players from the series. Loki Ferguson and Find Allen as soon as their respective franchise obligations are completed.
“Kane Williamson is unavailable for ODI selection due to commitments in the SA20 league. Mitch Hay will keep the wicket for the ODI series while Devon Conway will take the gloves for the T20Is. Jacob Duffy and Rachin Ravindra will sit out the ODI series to rest after being busy with all the cricket since the start of the summer season. Ben Sears returned from his stint in Melbourne but was not considered for selection in ODI cricket after returning to the playing program. Sears is progressing well and is on track to be ready for Super Smash. New Zealand Cricket said in an official statement.
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