Black Caps dealt blow as pacer ruled out of T20 World Cup
The Kiwis have been dealt an injury blow a fortnight out from the start of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
New Zealand quick Adam Milne will take no part in the Black Caps' ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign after he suffered a torn left hamstring.
Scans determined the tear was severe enough to rule him out for the entirity of the tournament, with his place in the 20-over showcase to be taken by fellow quick Kyle Jamieson.
Milne suffered the ailment on Sunday while playing in the SA20, South Africa Cricket's domestic Twenty20 tournament. He plays for Sunrisers Eastern Cape.
New Zealand have already confirmed that Kyle Jamieson will be added to their T20 World Cup squad as Milne's replacement, with the right-armer currently involved in the Black Caps' white-ball tour of India.
The 31-year-old was originally named as the Kiwis' travelling reserve for the February-March tournament in India and Sri Lanka.
Kyle Jamieson: New Zealand's fast-bowling giant
“We’re all gutted for Adam,” Black Caps coach Rob Walter declared.
“He’d worked so hard to get himself ready for the tournament and was looking back to his best in his eight games for the Eastern Cape Sunrisers.
“It's unfortunate timing for Adam and we wish him a speedy recovery.”
Adam Milne in depth feature
Adam Milne in depth feature
“It’s great that Kyle is already with us here in India," Walter continued.
“He’s an integral member of our pace-bowling group and has hit the ground running on this tour.
"He’s a hard worker with a good set of skills and experiences that will hold him good stead for the tournament.”
Walter also confirmed a replacement travelling reserve for the T20 World Cup would soon be confirmed.
New Zealand's first World Cup test is against Afghanistan in Chennai on February 8.