New Zealand have been hit with bad news ahead of their five-match T20I series against India as Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes are ruled out with injuries. The Black Caps have recalled Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner to the squad.

The first T20I is scheduled to be played in Christchurch on October 22, with the second T20I being held in the same venue on October 24, following which the teams will head to Wellington for the third T20I on October 27. The fourth T20I will be played in Auckland on October 30 with the fifth and final T20I set to take place in Hamilton on November 1.

Chapman targets ODI return for New Zealand as Foulkes faces uncertain recovery timeline

Chapman has sustained a hamstring injury during his participation in a T20 league in Europe last month and has been ruled out of the entire T20I series against India. The batsman is aiming to return for the next ODI series, but his recovery will dictate if it is possible.

Foulkes is nursing a hip flexor complaint, and it is uncertain when the fast bowler can make his comeback. New Zealand has to take on the task without its contributions for the duration of the assignment.

The setback has paved the way for an all-rounder Josh Clarkson and a fast bowler Blair Tickner to be included in the 16-member squad.

Head coach Rob Walter, however, voiced disappointment at the misfortune but was enthusiastic about the caliber and enthusiasm of the recruits.

“I'm gutted for Mark and Zak, and I wish them both a smooth recovery,” Walter said.

“We're fortunate to be able to lean on the expertise of Josh and Blair. I know they're both very excited to be involved in what's shaping up to be an epic T20 series,” he added.

The contest will renew the feud between the two sides which had faced off in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup earlier this year.

India triumphed the one-off encounter, registering a comprehensive 96-run win over New Zealand.

New Zealand squad for India T20I series

Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner.

New Zealand squad for India T20I series

Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner.