Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes ruled out of India T20I series
New Zealand have replaced Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes with Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner for the five-match T20I series that starts on October 22.
New Zealand have lost two players to injury ahead of their five-match T20I series against India. Mark Chapman suffered a left hamstring injury during the European T20 Premier League, while Zak Foulkes sustained a right hip flexor strain in training with Canterbury. New Zealand Cricket confirmed the absences on Friday.
All-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner have been called into the squad as replacements. Head coach Rob Walter said he was disappointed for the injured pair but welcomed the return of the two replacements. The series begins on October 22 in Christchurch.
New Zealand have lost their last five bilateral T20I series against India and their most recent encounter in the format was a 96-run defeat in the 2026 World Cup final. Mitchell Santner will lead a 16-man squad that includes Tim Seifert, Finn Allen and Glenn Phillips.
CricHubb Take
The injury call-ups of Clarkson and Tickner give New Zealand two players who have not featured in the format for several years. Their selection signals a focus on experience over recent form against an Indian side that has dominated the fixture.