New Zealand has named Jacob Duffy in their 15-player squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, marking his first senior World Cup appearance. Duffy, aged 31, is the sole newcomer in a squad with a wealth of experience, totaling 1064 T20I caps. Known for his exceptional form across formats, Duffy ended 2025 with 81 international wickets from 36 matches, surpassing Sir Richard Hadlee’s 40-year record.
The team will be led by Mitch Santner, who is gearing up for his ninth senior ICC global event. The squad features familiar faces such as pace bowlers Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, and Adam Milne, along with all-rounder Jimmy Neesham. Additionally, there are four spin options, including Ish Sodhi, the second-highest T20I wicket-taker for New Zealand, and all-rounders Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra.
The specialist batters in the squad are Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, and Tim Seifert, who will also handle wicketkeeping duties. Kyle Jamieson will accompany the squad as the pace-bowling reserve. Notably, due to impending paternity leave for Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry, NZC anticipates their temporary absence during the tournament.
Head coach Rob Walter expressed confidence in the squad’s composition, emphasizing the importance of balance. He highlighted the team’s batting prowess, versatile bowlers capable of adapting to various conditions, and the diverse skill sets brought by the five all-rounders. Walter underscored the experience of the group in subcontinental conditions, considering it a valuable asset for the upcoming tournament.
