New Zealand Cricket Hit by Injury Setbacks Ahead of India T20 Series

New Zealand's Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes are out of the upcoming T20 series against India due to injuries. Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner named as replace...

Editorial Desk

October 9, 2026 2 Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Wellington, New Zealand — New Zealand’s cricket squad faces a significant roster shakeup after batter Mark Chapman and fast bowler Zak Foulkes were officially ruled out of the upcoming Twenty20 series against India.

The announcement, made by New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Friday, comes as the team prepares to host India for a comprehensive tour featuring five T20s, five one-day internationals, and two tests. The opening T20 match is scheduled to take place in Christchurch on October 22.

Chapman is currently sidelined with a left hamstring tear, an injury sustained during his participation in the European T20 League last month. While he will miss the T20 matches, officials expect him to recover in time for the subsequent ODI series against India.

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Foulkes is dealing with a right hip flexor injury picked up during a recent Canterbury men’s training session. At this stage, there is no confirmed timeline for his return to competitive play.

In response to the vacancies, the team has called up all-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner to join the T20 squad. Coach Rob Walter expressed his disappointment for the injured players while welcoming the new additions, stating, I’m gutted for Mark and Zak and I wish them both a smooth recovery. 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 squad includes Mitchell Santner (C), 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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