Before the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, when New Zealand were touring India for a limited-overs series, the off-spinning all-rounder suffered a calf injury in his left leg. During the 3rd ODI against India last month, the all-rounder was injured. He then went through a rehabilitation process to play in the T20 World Cup. But unfortunately he was injured again in the same place.
New Zealand star Michael Bracewell has been ruled out of the 2026 T20 World Cup
New Zealand Cricket said during a warm-up session that Michael Bracewell injured himself again, forcing him to also be ruled out of the tournament. After the necessary scans, the spin-bowling all-rounder is expected to return to action after a few weeks. The 34-year-old’s injury came as a major setback for the Blackcaps.
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“Michael Bracewell rehabilitated the calf tear he suffered during the 3rd ODI against India last month but re-injured the muscle during warm-ups on Sunday. Subsequent scans confirmed the injury which is expected to require around three weeks of recovery before returning to play,” NZ Cricket informed.
In an official press release, Rob Walter, the head coach of the New Zealand cricket team, said the update has caused him significant pain. He wished the veteran cricketer a smooth recovery.
“We all feel for Michael Bracewell. It is very difficult to be excluded from a World Cup, and I know how much playing for New Zealand means to him. Michael has worked incredibly hard to give himself a chance, but has unfortunately suffered this setback. We wish him a smooth recovery,” Rob Walter said in a brief statement.
Cole McConchie travels to India
Canterbury Kings captain Cole McConchie will join the national camp to replace the injured Michael Bracewell. McConchie will travel to India to join the squad as a traveling reserve alongside pace bowler Ben Sears. For Canterbury Kings, McConchie endured a successful domestic T20 as the leading wicket-taker for the team. He took 14 wickets at an economy rate of 7.71 for the Kings.
Also a spin bowling all-rounder, McConchie has represented the national side in 6 ODIs and 12 T20Is. In those 12 T20Is for New Zealand, he claimed just 7 wickets but had an impressive economy rate of 7.29. New Zealand’s head coach believes McConchie’s inclusion will bring some extra credibility to the squad.
Head coach on McConchie’s inclusion
“Cole is a seasoned campaigner. He brings great all-round skills to the group, along with plenty of T20 experience. It’s great to have an experienced head to lean on, especially for a World Cup,” said the head coach.
New Zealand Cricket announced via their official website that McConchie will meet with the squad on Friday the 13th.
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