T20 World Cup 2026: New Zealand Replace Injured Milne with Kyle Jamieson in Squad
In a disappointing blow for New Zealand ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, experienced fast bowler Adam Milne has been ruled out of the tournament due to a significant left hamstring injury sustained while bowling in South Africa’s SA20 competition. The setback has forced the Black Caps to reshuffle their pace-bowling resources, with towering quick Kyle Jamieson initially named as a travelling reserve promoted into the main squad for the global showpiece co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Milne’s injury came at an unfortunate time, with scans confirming a torn hamstring severe enough to rule him out of the entire tournament. The 33-year-old had been looking to make an impact after showcasing early signs of a return to form in the SA20, where he has been representing the Sunrisers Eastern Cape franchise. Known for his express pace and ability to strike at key moments particularly in the powerplay and death overs Milne’s absence removes a valuable wicket-taking option from New Zealand’s bowling arsenal.
Black Caps head coach Rob Walter expressed deep sympathy for Milne, highlighting the veteran pacer’s hard work and dedication toward being fully fit for the World Cup. “We’re all gutted for Adam,” Walter said, reflecting the collective disappointment within the squad. “He’d worked so hard to get himself ready for the tournament and was looking back to his best.” The coach also extended best wishes for Milne’s recovery, emphasizing the player’s professionalism and importance to the team both on and off the field.
Stepping into Milne’s spot, Kyle Jamieson brings a different but valuable skill set to the Black Caps’ pace unit. The 6 '8″ quick was already part of New Zealand’s touring party as a travelling reserve and has been training with the squad during their preparations in India. Jamieson’s elevation to the core 15-man World Cup squad ensures a smooth transition, as he is already acclimatised to the team environment and conditions in the subcontinent.
Jamieson’s international career has seen notable highs, including impactful bowling performances and contributions with the bat, making him a versatile option for head coach Walter. Despite returning from a back injury layoff not long ago, Jamieson has impressed selectors with his work ethic, adaptability and the ability to extract bounce qualities that can be particularly useful on the varied pitches expected throughout the World Cup.
The timing of Milne’s withdrawal underscores the broader challenge of managing bowling workloads and injuries in the modern game. Fast bowlers around the world are increasingly susceptible to muscle strains and stress injuries, especially with packed franchise and international calendars. For New Zealand, whose schedule has been disrupted by multiple injury concerns in recent weeks, addressing depth will be crucial as they seek to compete against strong bowling attacks from rival nations.
With the World Cup fast approaching (beginning on February 7), teams are finalising their plans and focusing on peak performance. New Zealand will begin their campaign against Afghanistan in Chennai on February 8, aiming to navigate a tough Group D that also features South Africa, UAE and Canada. Jamieson’s inclusion adds pace variation and strategic flexibility, but the Black Caps will still be mindful of the balance and fitness of their bowling group as tournament intensity builds.
As Milne begins rehabilitation with hopes of a full recovery, Jamieson’s opportunity presents a fresh chapter for the towering quick in a tournament that could define his white-ball credentials further. New Zealand’s pursuit of T20 World Cup success continues amid the challenges of player turnover and fitness, highlighting the unpredictable nature of international cricket and the importance of squad depth in global competitions.
Milne’s injury came at an unfortunate time, with scans confirming a torn hamstring severe enough to rule him out of the entire tournament. The 33-year-old had been looking to make an impact after showcasing early signs of a return to form in the SA20, where he has been representing the Sunrisers Eastern Cape franchise. Known for his express pace and ability to strike at key moments particularly in the powerplay and death overs Milne’s absence removes a valuable wicket-taking option from New Zealand’s bowling arsenal.
Black Caps head coach Rob Walter expressed deep sympathy for Milne, highlighting the veteran pacer’s hard work and dedication toward being fully fit for the World Cup. “We’re all gutted for Adam,” Walter said, reflecting the collective disappointment within the squad. “He’d worked so hard to get himself ready for the tournament and was looking back to his best.” The coach also extended best wishes for Milne’s recovery, emphasizing the player’s professionalism and importance to the team both on and off the field.
Stepping into Milne’s spot, Kyle Jamieson brings a different but valuable skill set to the Black Caps’ pace unit. The 6 '8″ quick was already part of New Zealand’s touring party as a travelling reserve and has been training with the squad during their preparations in India. Jamieson’s elevation to the core 15-man World Cup squad ensures a smooth transition, as he is already acclimatised to the team environment and conditions in the subcontinent.
Jamieson’s international career has seen notable highs, including impactful bowling performances and contributions with the bat, making him a versatile option for head coach Walter. Despite returning from a back injury layoff not long ago, Jamieson has impressed selectors with his work ethic, adaptability and the ability to extract bounce qualities that can be particularly useful on the varied pitches expected throughout the World Cup.
The timing of Milne’s withdrawal underscores the broader challenge of managing bowling workloads and injuries in the modern game. Fast bowlers around the world are increasingly susceptible to muscle strains and stress injuries, especially with packed franchise and international calendars. For New Zealand, whose schedule has been disrupted by multiple injury concerns in recent weeks, addressing depth will be crucial as they seek to compete against strong bowling attacks from rival nations.
With the World Cup fast approaching (beginning on February 7), teams are finalising their plans and focusing on peak performance. New Zealand will begin their campaign against Afghanistan in Chennai on February 8, aiming to navigate a tough Group D that also features South Africa, UAE and Canada. Jamieson’s inclusion adds pace variation and strategic flexibility, but the Black Caps will still be mindful of the balance and fitness of their bowling group as tournament intensity builds.
As Milne begins rehabilitation with hopes of a full recovery, Jamieson’s opportunity presents a fresh chapter for the towering quick in a tournament that could define his white-ball credentials further. New Zealand’s pursuit of T20 World Cup success continues amid the challenges of player turnover and fitness, highlighting the unpredictable nature of international cricket and the importance of squad depth in global competitions.
Next Story