Calf injury rules Michael Bracewell out of T20 World Cup 2026

New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has been ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 after reinjuring his left calf. The 34-year-old Bracewell had been working his way back from the calf tear he sustained during the third ODI against India last month but suffered a recurrence during warm-ups on Sunday before the Afghanistan game. Scans later confirmed the injury, which is expected to require around three weeks of recovery before he can return to play.

Head coach Rob Walter said the setback was a difficult one for Bracewell. "We're all feeling for Michael," Walter said. "It's really tough to get ruled out of a World Cup and I know how much playing for New Zealand means to him.

"Michael worked incredibly hard to give himself a chance but unfortunately has had this setback. We wish him a smooth recovery."

New Zealand have named Cole McConchie as a travelling reserve, although they are yet to officially draft him into the squad as a replacement player. McConchie, who has played 145 T20s, comes in on the back of a very successful domestic campaign, finishing as Canterbury Kings' leading wicket-taker with 14 wicket at an economy of 7.71.

Walter added that McConchie's experience would be valuable in the tournament environment. "Cole is a seasoned campaigner. He brings a great all-round skillset to the group along with a lot of T20 experience. It's great to be able to lean on an experienced head especially for a World Cup."

New Zealand will play their third Group D fixture on Saturday, June 14, against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.