Injury forces change in New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad

Michael Bracewell has been replaced by Cole McConchie as travelling reserve in New Zealand's squad.

GettyImages-2260356166

New Zealand have been forced to make a change to their squad during their ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign.

The Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 have approved Cole McConchie as a travelling reserve in Michael Bracewell's stead in the New Zealand squad.

All-rounder Bracewell picked up an injury while carrying out support duties during match against Afghanistan in Chennai on February 8.

New Zealand began their T20 World Cup campaign with a five-wicket win over Afghanistan. The Kiwis followed it up with another impressive win over the UAE.

New Zealand openers seal win with record stand | Match Highlights | T20WC 2026

A record opening stand of 175 runs at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup powered New Zealand’s 10-wicket win against UAE. Watch the match highlights.

New Zealand coach Rob Walter said it was a massive blow to lose Bracewell.

“We’re all feeling for Michael,” said Walter.

“It’s really tough to get ruled out of a World Cup and I know how much playing for New Zealand means to him.

“Michael worked incredibly hard to give himself a chance but unfortunately has had this set back.

“We wish him a smooth recovery.”

New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi. Reserves: Ben Sears, Cole McConchie

ICC Women's Cricket World Cup, 2025