New Zealand Suffers Injury Blow as Chapman and Foulkes Miss India T20s

Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes miss New Zealand's T20I series against India due to injuries. Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner join the squad as replacements.

Editorial Desk

October 9, 2026 2 Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Wellington, New Zealand — New Zealand cricket has been dealt a double injury setback ahead of its upcoming international series, with batter Mark Chapman and fast bowler Zak Foulkes forced out of the upcoming Twenty20 fixtures against India.

The country’s cricket board (NZC) confirmed the roster changes on Friday, outlining that the team is scheduled to host India for a sprawling tour featuring five T20 matches, five one-day internationals, and two tests. The opening T20 clash is set to take place in Christchurch on October 22.

Chapman sustained a left hamstring tear during his stint in the European T20 League last month. While he will sit out the T20 matches, officials expect him to recover in time for the ensuing ODI series against the visiting side.

Meanwhile, Foulkes picked up a right hip flexor injury during a recent training session with the Canterbury men’s squad. Athletic trainers have not yet established a definitive timeline for his recovery and return to the pitch.

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In response to the vacancies, selectors tapped all-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner to step into the New Zealand T20 squad as direct replacements.

Coach Rob Walter expressed sympathy for the sidelined athletes while welcoming the incoming talent. 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.

The updated New Zealand T20 squad features Mitchell Santner as captain, alongside 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.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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