- Kyle Jamieson named as replacement after being added to squad in India
New Zealand have been dealt a significant blow just two weeks before the start of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with fast bowler Adam Milne ruled out after suffering a torn left hamstring while playing in South Africa’s SA20 tournament.
Scans confirmed the injury is severe enough to sideline Milne for the entire tournament, forcing the Black Caps to bring in Kyle Jamieson as his replacement. Jamieson, who was originally named as a travelling reserve, is already with the squad on their white-ball tour of India and has been included in the World Cup roster ahead of the February–March event in India and Sri Lanka.
Black Caps coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment for Milne, highlighting the pacer’s hard work and strong form in the SA20. “He’d worked so hard to get himself ready for the tournament and was looking back to his best,” Walter said, adding that the timing of the injury was unfortunate for the 31-year-old.
Jamieson’s inclusion provides New Zealand with an experienced seam option, with Walter noting the right-armer has already made an impact on tour. “He’s an integral member of our pace-bowling group and has hit the ground running,” the coach said.
New Zealand will now turn their attention to the World Cup opener against Afghanistan in Chennai on February 8, while also awaiting confirmation of a replacement travelling reserve for the squad.
