New Zealand fast bowler Adam Milne has been ruled out of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after suffering a hamstring injury during the SA20 and has been replaced by Kyle Jamieson.
Milne suffered the injury in his opening over for Sunrisers Eastern Cape last Sunday against MI Cape Town. Subsequent scans confirmed the extent of the tear, ending his World Cup campaign.
The fast bowler was in strong form in the tournament, taking 11 wickets at an average of 16.27 and an economy rate of 7.61.
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment at the setback, praising Milne’s efforts to regain top form ahead of the global event.
“We’re all rooting for Adam,” Walter said. “He has worked incredibly hard to prepare himself for the tournament and has looked his best in eight games for the Sunrisers Eastern Cape. The timing is unfortunate and we wish him a speedy recovery.”
He also welcomed Jamieson’s early arrival in India, highlighting his value to the pace division and his readiness for competition.
“It’s great that Kyle is already with us in India,” he said. “He is an integral member of our bowling team, a hard worker with strong skills and experience that will stand him in good stead during the tournament.”
Jamieson, who is currently part of the squad touring India, has been promoted from the traveling reserves. The squads can be freely edited until January 31, after which any changes will require ICC approval.
He returned to international cricket late last year following a back injury and recently took 4 for 41 in the first ODI against India.
New Zealand have also confirmed that Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson can take paternity leave during the tournament. An additional traveling reserve will be added to the squad before the start of the World Cup.
The Black Caps begin their T20 World Cup campaign on February 8 in Chennai against Afghanistan, followed by a warm-up game against the USA in Mumbai on February 6.
Following the conclusion of the T20I series against India, four matches remain.
Updated New Zealand Squad:
Mitchell Santner (Catch), 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) and.
New Zealand T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule: