New Zealand Suffer Double Injury Blow as Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes Miss India T20I Series

Abhirah Goel

New Zealand have suffered a major setback ahead of their five-match T20I series against India, with Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes ruled out due to injuries. The absence of the two players has forced the Black Caps to make changes to their squad ahead of an important international assignment against the reigning T20 World Cup champions.

New Zealand Cricket confirmed the developments on October 9, 2026, announcing Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner as replacements for the injured duo. The series begins on October 22 in Christchurch, with both teams looking to build momentum following their meeting in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup final earlier this year.

Mark Chapman Ruled Out With Hamstring Injury

Mark Chapman will miss the entire India vs New Zealand T20I series after suffering a tear in his left hamstring. The batter sustained the injury while playing in the European T20 Premier League last month.

Chapman's absence is a significant loss for New Zealand because of his ability to contribute in the middle order and accelerate the scoring rate in the shorter format. His experience against international bowling attacks also makes him a valuable member of the squad.

However, there is some positive news for the Black Caps. Chapman is expected to recover in time for the subsequent five-match ODI series against India, although his availability will depend on his rehabilitation and fitness.

New Zealand will hope that the left-hander returns to full fitness before the ODI leg of the tour begins. 

Zak Foulkes Sidelined With Hip Flexor Injury

Fast bowler Zak Foulkes is the second player to miss the upcoming T20I series. The right-arm pacer sustained an injury to his right hip flexor during a training session with Canterbury.

Unlike Chapman, Foulkes does not yet have a confirmed return-to-play timeline. His recovery will depend on the progress of his rehabilitation and subsequent medical assessments.

Foulkes' absence reduces New Zealand's fast-bowling options ahead of a challenging series against India's powerful batting lineup. His ability to contribute with the ball had made him a useful option for the team's plans.

The Black Caps will now need their remaining pace bowlers to step up and deliver consistent performances throughout the five matches.

Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner Named Replacements

New Zealand have included all-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner in their updated 16-member squad.

Clarkson provides additional flexibility with his all-round abilities, while Tickner strengthens the team's pace-bowling resources. Both players will have an opportunity to establish themselves as the Black Caps prepare for a demanding series against India.

Head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment over the injuries but welcomed the replacements into the squad, highlighting the experience and enthusiasm they bring to the group.

The revised squad will be led by Mitchell Santner and features established players such as Devon Conway, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Finn Allen and Tim Seifert.

India vs New Zealand T20I Series 2026: Full Schedule

The five-match IND vs NZ T20I series will take place across four venues in New Zealand.

The series offers both teams an opportunity to assess their combinations and build confidence ahead of future international competitions.

New Zealand's double injury blow comes at a challenging time, with Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes unavailable for the India T20I series. While Chapman's potential return for the ODIs offers encouragement, Foulkes' recovery timeline remains uncertain.

The inclusion of Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner provides the Black Caps with fresh options, but replacing the injured players' contributions will be important against a strong Indian side.

With the opening match scheduled for October 22, New Zealand will look to overcome these setbacks and begin the series with a competitive performance.

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