Why has New Zealand’s T20I squad changed ahead of the India series?

Mitchell Santner (Image credit: ICC)

NEW DELHI: New Zealand have made two changes to their T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series against India after Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes were ruled out with injuries.Allrounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner have been called up to replace the injured players. The series is scheduled to begin on October 22.

Chapman hopes to return for ODIs, Foulkes’ recovery timeline unclear

Chapman suffered a tear in his left hamstring while playing in the European T20 league last month. He is expected to be available for New Zealand’s ODI series against India.Foulkes, meanwhile, injured his right hip flexor during a recent Canterbury men’s training session. His return date has not yet been decided.

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment over the injuries but said he was happy to have Clarkson and Tickner available as replacements.“I’m gutted for Mark and Zak and I wish them both a smooth recovery,” said Walter.“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.”

Updated New Zealand squad for India T20Is

Mitchell Santner will lead the 16-member squad for the five-match series.

India vs New Zealand T20I series: Full schedule

New Zealand T20I squad vs India:

Mitchell Santner (captain), 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 and Blair Tickner.