Major Blow for New Zealand: Star Fast Bowler Adam Milne Ruled Out of T20 World Cup

New Delhi: With the T20 World Cup 2026 just around the corner, New Zealand has suffered a major setback. Star fast bowler Adam Milne has been ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury, and 31-year-old Kyle Jamieson has been named as his replacement, the New Zealand Cricket Board announced on Friday.

Milne Injured During SA20 League
Milne sustained the injury while playing for Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20 League on Sunday. Subsequent X-rays confirmed the severity of the hamstring tear. The fast bowler, known for his pace and lethal bowling, was in excellent form, having impressed in eight matches for the team in the league.

Kyle Jamieson Steps In
Jamieson, who was already traveling with New Zealand as a standby player for the tournament, will now take Milne’s place in the squad. Coach Rob Walter said, “We are all very disappointed for Adam. He worked extremely hard to prepare for the tournament and was in peak form for Eastern Cape. We wish him a speedy recovery.”

New Zealand’s T20 World Cup Schedule
New Zealand will play a warm-up match against the USA in Mumbai on 6 February, followed by their first official game against Afghanistan in Chennai on 8 February. They will then face UAE at the same venue on 10 February before traveling to Ahmedabad to take on South Africa on 15 February. The team will conclude the league stage with a match against Canada in Chennai on 17 February. After finishing third in Group C in 2024, losing to Afghanistan and West Indies, New Zealand will be hoping for a stronger performance this time.

Impact of Milne’s Absence
Milne’s injury is a significant blow to New Zealand, particularly ahead of a major tournament like the T20 World Cup. His pace and experience made him one of the team’s key bowlers. Jamieson now carries the responsibility to fill Milne’s shoes, though the experienced bowler has previously delivered crucial performances for New Zealand and is expected to step up in his new role.