New Zealand have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 with premier fast bowler Adam Milne ruled out of the tournament due to a torn left hamstring. The injury was sustained on January 18 while Milne was in action for Sunrisers Eastern Cape during the ongoing SA20 2026 league, abruptly halting his momentum at a crucial stage of preparation.

Adam Milne injury leaves a hole in New Zealand’s pace blueprint

Milne’s absence is a major setback for the Black Caps, as he was expected to play a key role in their pace attack. Known for his express speed and ability to strike in short bursts, Milne brought a point of difference to New Zealand’s bowling plans, particularly in the powerplay and at the death. His recent performances in South Africa had suggested he was returning to peak rhythm, making the timing of the injury especially frustrating for both player and team management.

With conditions in the subcontinent expected to test fast bowlers, Milne’s experience and wicket-taking ability would have been invaluable. His unavailability now forces New Zealand to rethink their pace combinations and workload management for the remaining fast bowlers in the squad.

Replacement announced for Milne

New Zealand have moved swiftly to address Milne’s absence by naming Kyle Jamieson as his replacement in the World Cup squad. Jamieson was already part of the touring group as a travelling reserve and is currently with the team in India, which has eased the transition.

Head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment over Milne’s injury but backed Jamieson to slot in seamlessly. Walter highlighted Jamieson’s value as an integral member of New Zealand’s pace-bowling unit, praising his work ethic, skill set, and adaptability across conditions. The team management has also confirmed that another travelling reserve will be named in due course to bolster depth.

Jamieson’s height, bounce, and ability to contribute with the bat add a different dimension to the squad, giving New Zealand flexibility as they fine-tune their combinations ahead of the tournament.

Injury concerns continue to haunt New Zealand

Milne’s setback is the latest in a worrying run of injury issues for New Zealand. Fast bowlers Will O’Rourke, Blair Tickner, Nathan Smithand Ben Sears are all currently sidelined, limiting the selectors’ options. Several senior players, including Mitchell Santner, Mark Chapmanand Matt Henryhave only recently returned from injury and are being carefully managed.

Adding to the uncertainty, Lockie Ferguson is still recovering from a calf injury and has not featured in the ongoing series against India. Both Ferguson and Henry are also expected to miss parts of the World Cup due to paternity leave, further complicating New Zealand’s planning as the tournament approaches.

Updated squad of New Zealand for T20 World Cup 2026: Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi