New Zealand have announced their 16-member T20I squad for the upcoming home series against India, with Rachin Ravindra ruled out because of a shoulder injury and experienced fast bowler Adam Milne returning to the international setup.
The five-match series will begin on October 22 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, with New Zealand white-ball captain Mitchell Santner continuing to lead the side. The squad features 13 members of the New Zealand team that finished runners-up to India at the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, while Milne and Michael Bracewell return after missing that tournament through injury.
Rachin Ravindra ruled out of India T20I series
Ravindra’s absence is the major talking point from New Zealand’s squad announcement.
The talented all-rounder dislocated his right shoulder during a promotional shoot in Auckland on September 16 while attempting a diving catch. Initial medical assessments did not reveal major structural damage, but his rehabilitation is expected to take approximately six weeks.
As a result, Ravindra will miss the five-match T20I series against India. New Zealand are, however, hopeful that he can return for the three-match ODI series, which begins on November 4.
Ravindra had also played an important role during New Zealand’s run to the 2026 T20 World Cup final, making his absence another notable change for the Blackcaps ahead of the India series.
Adam Milne returns after more than a year
While Ravindra misses out, New Zealand have welcomed Adam Milne back into the T20I squad.
The 34-year-old fast bowler last represented New Zealand against Zimbabwe more than a year ago. He missed the 2026 T20 World Cup because of injury but is now back in contention for the home series against India.
Milne brings considerable T20 experience to the squad. He has played 243 T20 matches, including 56 internationals, and adds another experienced option to what is a particularly strong New Zealand pace attack.
Michael Bracewell is another important name returning to the New Zealand setup.
The spin-bowling all-rounder missed the T20 World Cup because of injury but has now been included in the squad for the India series. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball provides New Zealand with additional balance.
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Ben Sears unavailable for selection
Fast bowler Ben Sears has not been considered for the India T20Is as he continues his rehabilitation from an ankle injury.
His absence is partly offset by the return of Milne and the availability of several other established pace options. New Zealand’s selectors have therefore opted for a squad with considerable bowling depth.
New Zealand T20I squad for India series
Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Nathan Smith.
