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New Zealand’s stand-in ODI captain Michael Bracewell sustained a minor left-calf strain while fielding in the ODI series decider in Indore. Bracewell has been ruled out of the first three T20Is. On the eve of the five-T20I series opener, pace-bowling all-rounder Kristian Clarke has been added to the T20I squad for the first three T20Is of the series against India. A call on Bracewell’s participation in the series ahead of T20 World Cup 2026 will be taken in a few days’ time.
“Northern Districts bowling all-rounder Kristian Clarke will remain with the BLACKCAPS in India after being added to the T20 squad for the first three matches of the upcoming five-game series, starting in Nagpur on Wednesday night,” New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said in an official statement.
“Meanwhile, Michael Bracewell has travelled with the squad to Nagpur after suffering a minor left-calf strain while fielding in Sunday’s final ODI in Indore. He will be treated and monitored over the coming days before a decision is made on his ongoing involvement in the tour.”
Clarke’s impressive ODI debut and T20 numbers
Clarke impressed in his debut ODI series, claiming seven wickets at an average of 26.14. The 24-year-old does not have much T20 experience under his belt. From 22 T20s, he has claimed 24 wickets at an average of 26.95. His economy rate in T20s is 9.08 runs per over. It will be interesting to see if he makes his T20I debut straightaway.
“We want to ensure we’ve got enough pace-bowling options for the first three games of this series and it’s a great opportunity for Kristian to stay on with the group a little longer on his first tour of India," head coach Rob Walter said.
“He certainly showcased his talent in the ODI series, but what was particularly impressive was his calmness and ability to perform under pressure."
New Zealand’s updated T20I squad vs India -
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell (injured), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Ish Sodhi, Kristian Clarke (first 3 T20Is).
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