New Zealand have suffered a major setback in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, with star all-rounder Michael Bracewell ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to injury. The development comes after New Zealand began their campaign with back-to-back victories in their opening two matches.
Bracewell sustained a calf injury during training ahead of the early matches of the T20 World Cup, an issue that had previously troubled him during the India tour. Although there were expectations that he would recover in time, he suffered a recurrence of the muscle injury during a training session on Sunday.
New Zealand Cricket said in an official statement that Bracewell had recovered from the calf injury sustained during the third ODI against India last month, but the muscle was re-injured during Sunday’s training. Medical assessment has confirmed that he will require approximately three weeks to regain full fitness.
As a result of the injury, Michael Bracewell has been ruled out of the tournament without playing a single T20 match. His absence is a significant concern for New Zealand, given his role as a key all-rounder and experienced player in the squad.
New Zealand Cricket has announced a replacement for Bracewell. Off-spin all-rounder Cole McConchie has been added to the squad in his place. In addition, fast bowler Ben Sears will join the team as a reserve player. The changes are expected to alter New Zealand’s squad balance, particularly across the bowling and batting departments.
Earlier in the tournament, Sri Lanka also faced a setback after their leading all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga was ruled out of the remaining matches due to injury. Hasaranga sustained a strain in his left muscle during Sri Lanka’s opening match against Ireland.
