T20 World Cup 2026: Ben Sears Named Travelling Reserve as New Zealand Boost Bowling Depth

New Zealand have made a late strategic adjustment to their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 plans by adding pace bowler Ben Sears as a travelling reserve, strengthening their bowling depth amid ongoing injury concerns. The move comes as the global tournament prepares to kick off across India and Sri Lanka from February 7, 2026.

The 27-year-old joins the Black Caps’ support group after an impressive return to form in New Zealand’s domestic T20 competition, the Super Smash. Representing the Wellington Firebirds, Sears picked up 15 wickets at an average of 17.93, performances that earned him a spot as a travelling reserve. His inclusion follows the elevation of Kyle Jamieson to the main squad as New Zealand reshuffled their resources due to injury-related issues.

The decision was largely influenced by the absence of Adam Milne, who has been ruled out with a recurring hamstring problem. Milne’s withdrawal has dealt a blow to New Zealand’s T20 World Cup 2026 bowling plans, given his express pace and extensive international experience. In response, the selectors opted to expand their fast-bowling options by bringing in Sears, a reliable performer who has shown resilience in returning strongly from injury through consistent domestic performances.

Head coach Rob Walter emphasised Sears’ hard work and readiness: “Ben’s worked hard to get himself back on the park and it’s been great to see him back playing and performing well.” Walter highlighted that Sears will be ready to contribute should any of the frontline bowlers be sidelined during the tournament.

Sears, who has featured in 22 T20 Internationals, last represented New Zealand in early October against Australia. His inclusion in the extended squad reflects the team management’s confidence in his ability to contribute if called upon. While he is not part of the primary 15-man World Cup squad, his presence in the travelling contingent offers valuable insurance in a tournament where injuries can prove decisive.

The Black Caps face a challenging group-stage schedule, beginning their campaign on February 8 in Chennai against Afghanistan, followed by fixtures against the United Arab Emirates, South Africa and Canada. With an experienced pace attack featuring Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry and Kyle Jamieson, New Zealand will aim to strike the right balance between proven quality and the fresh energy Sears provides.

Fast-bowling depth is increasingly vital in T20 World Cup tournaments, where pitch conditions vary significantly across venues and match scenarios can change rapidly. Sears’ consistent performances in the Super Smash add an extra layer of security to New Zealand’s plans, particularly in a format defined by unpredictability.

New Zealand’s final warm-up match is scheduled against the USA on February 5 in Mumbai, where Sears is expected to link up with the squad. While Black Caps supporters will hope his services are not required early in the tournament, his inclusion highlights smart squad management and a proactive approach as New Zealand prepare for a high-pressure ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.