New Zealand Cricket has finalized its squads for the forthcoming ODI and T20I series in India, viewing the tour as a crucial stepping stone towards the 2026 T20 World Cup. The five-match T20I series, preceded by three ODIs, will allow the team to adapt to Indian playing conditions. Mitchell Santner will captain the T20I squad, with Michael Bracewell leading the ODI contingent. The selections highlight a balance between established stars and emerging talent, recognizing players like Jayden Lennox and Kristian Clarke for their recent performances. Kyle Jamieson is set to feature in both formats after recovering from injury, while Mark Chapman and Matt Henry return for the T20Is. Key players such as Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, and Will O’Rourke have been rested or are undergoing injury management as part of a careful workload strategy. Head coach Rob Walter underscored the significance of this tour: “Playing in the sub-continent is obviously very different to what we’re used to in New Zealand, so any opportunity we can get to expose our guys to those conditions can only be a good thing, especially before a T20 World Cup in the subcontinent.” Jayden Lennox’s inclusion marks a significant milestone, earning him his first international cap. The T20I squad will gain further strength as players complete their franchise obligations later in the tour.
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