Milne back in the mix as New Zealand go big on pace
Adam Milne is back where he belongs — in a New Zealand T20I squad. The 34-year-old speedster has been included in the 16-member group for the upcoming five-match series against India, marking his return to the national setup after more than a year.
Milne last featured for the Black Caps against Zimbabwe over 12 months ago. His comeback comes off the back of a strong T20 franchise season and adds serious experience to a pace-heavy attack.
New Zealand Cricket announced the squad on Wednesday, September 23, with the first T20I scheduled to begin on October 22 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.
Full squad: Santner leads, Bracewell returns, Ravindra out
Mitchell Santner will continue as captain, leading a core group that largely mirrors the T20 World Cup runner-up side. Thirteen players from that squad have been retained, with two key returns and one notable absence.
Spin all-rounder Michael Bracewell is also back after missing the World Cup through injury. His return bolsters New Zealand’s middle-order depth and gives Santner another bowling option.
The big omission is Rachin Ravindra, who dislocated his right shoulder during a promotional shoot and has been ruled out of the series.
New Zealand T20I squad vs India (2026):
Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert, Nathan Smith.
Seven-man pace attack built for India’s firepower
New Zealand have gone with a seven-strong pace group: Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Nathan Smith, and Adam Milne.
It’s a clear statement of intent. With India’s explosive top order, the hosts want options to hit the deck hard, vary lengths, and manage workloads across five games.
Milne’s inclusion is especially interesting. He brings raw pace, T20 nous, and the ability to bowl at different stages — exactly what you want against a deep Indian batting line-up.
What this means for Milne, and what’s next
For Milne, this is more than just a recall. At 34, with 56 T20Is and 243 T20 matches under his belt, he’s looking to cement a late-career resurgence on home soil.
He missed the T20 World Cup in February with a torn left hamstring but has since rebuilt fitness and form. Now, he walks into a crowded seamers’ room and must earn his spot game by game.
The five-match series against India begins on October 22 in Christchurch, with more T20Is to follow as part of a packed home summer for the Black Caps.
FAQs
When does the New Zealand vs India T20I series start?
The first T20I begins on October 22, 2026, at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.
Is Adam Milne playing for New Zealand again?
Yes. Milne returns to the T20I squad after more than a year, last playing against Zimbabwe.
Why is Rachin Ravindra not in the squad?
Ravindra dislocated his right shoulder during a promotional shoot and has been ruled out of the series.
Who is captain of New Zealand’s T20I squad against India?
Mitchell Santner will captain the 16-member squad for the five-match series.
