The T20 World Cup 2026 is underway, and Team New Zealand needs to make a player change. The tournament’s technical committee has approved Cole McConchie as a replacement for Michael Bracewell, who is injured. Bracewell hurt himself on February 8 during the match against Afghanistan while performing support tasks.
New Zealand is in a strong position in their group with two wins. They first defeated Afghanistan, then secured a 10-wicket victory against the UAE while chasing a target of 174 runs.
In their match against the UAE, New Zealand allowed 173 runs on a batting-friendly Chennai pitch. They demonstrated their batting capabilities by successfully reaching the target. Tim Seifert scored 89 runs off 42 balls, while Finn Allen added a solid 84 off 50 balls. This victory puts New Zealand at the top of Group D and brings them closer to qualifying for the Super 8.
New Zealand still has group matches to play. They will face South Africa on February 14 and Canada on February 17.
New Zealand squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi. Cole McConchie and Ben Sears serve as backup players.
