Ferguson, Henry may take paternity leave during T20 World Cup
Fast bowlers Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry might be absent for short durations during the upcoming T20 World Cup due to paternity leave. They are also part of a cohort of New Zealand players healing from injuries as the tournament approaches. Both athletes, recovering from calf injuries, have been named in New Zealand’s 15-player squad along with Finn Allen (finger/hamstring), Mark Chapman (ankle), and captain Mitchell Santner (adductor). Ferguson has not represented New Zealand since November 2024. A statement from New Zealand Cricket (NZC) indicated that all players with injuries are “undergoing respective return-to-play plans and are currently on track to be fit for the tournament.” Adam Milne, who last played for New Zealand in July, and allrounder James Neesham are also included, while Jacob Duffy will make his World Cup debut. Kyle Jamieson is listed as a traveling reserve. “With Ferguson and Henry’s partners expecting to give birth during the tournament, it is probable they will receive brief paternity leave,” NZC mentioned. Tim Robinson, who notched a century against Australia last October, has been left out due to a competitive top-order batting situation that has awarded places to Allen, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Tim Seifert. Seifert will handle the wicketkeeping responsibilities with Conway as the backup.
“Maintaining the balance of the squad is essential,” coach Rob Walter remarked. “We possess abundant power and skill in our batting lineup, along with quality bowlers able to adjust to different conditions, plus five all-rounders who each contribute unique strengths. This group has considerable experience, and the players are familiar with competing in the subcontinent, which will prove advantageous.” New Zealand is placed in Group D alongside Afghanistan, Canada, South Africa, and the UAE, with their first match scheduled for February 8 in Chennai against Afghanistan. They will gear up for the tournament with five T20Is against India following a three-match ODI series.
New Zealand squad for 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup: Mitchell Santner (capt), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Adam Milne, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi | Traveling reserve: Kyle Jamieson
Published: 2026-01-06 23:38:00
source: www.espncricinfo.com
