New Zealand Announces Squad for ICC 2026 World Cup: Full Team, Key Picks & Analysis

New Zealand has officially announced its squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, and the selection once again underlines why the Black Caps are regarded as one of the most innovative teams in world cricket. Led by Mitchell Santner, the squad blends experience, versatility, and tactical flexibility, key traits that have defined New Zealand’s success in global tournaments.

With conditions in India and Sri Lanka expected to favour adaptability, New Zealand’s squad selection reflects a clear and well-thought-out World Cup strategy.

New Zealand Reveals Their ICC 2026 World Cup Squad

The New Zealand Cricket selectors unveiled a strong 15-member squad ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, rewarding consistent performers while backing multi-skilled players who can contribute in more than one department.

Rather than relying on big names alone, New Zealand has focused on balancing a hallmark of its World Cup planning over the years.

New Zealand ICC 2026 World Cup Squad: Full List

Player Name	Role
Mitchell Santner (c)	All-rounder
Finn Allen	Batsman
Devon Conway	Wicketkeeper-Batsman
Daryl Mitchell	All-rounder
Glenn Phillips	All-rounder
Rachin Ravindra	All-rounder
Michael Bracewell	All-rounder
Mark Chapman	Batsman
Tim Seifert	Wicketkeeper-Batsman
James Neesham	All-rounder
Lockie Ferguson	Fast Bowler
Matt Henry	Fast Bowler
Adam Milne	Fast Bowler
Ish Sodhi	Spinner
Jacob Duffy	Fast Bowler

Travelling Reserve: Kyle Jamieson (Fast Bowler)

This squad composition highlights New Zealand’s emphasis on all-round depth and bowling variety.

Captain and Leadership Group

Mitchell Santner has been appointed captain for the ICC 2026 World Cup, a move that reflects the team management’s faith in his calm leadership and tactical awareness. Santner’s ability to control the middle overs with the ball and contribute valuable runs makes him a natural leader in T20 cricket.

Leadership Core:

• Captain: Mitchell Santner
• Senior Players: Kane Williamson (not selected), absence noted, with leadership responsibility shared by experienced campaigners like Daryl Mitchell, Devon Conway, and James Neesham

The leadership group will be crucial during high-pressure knockout games.

Key Players to Watch in New Zealand’s 2026 World Cup Squad

• Devon Conway: A reliable top-order batter who provides stability and experience in big matches.
• Finn Allen: Brings explosive power at the top and can change games during the power play.
• Daryl Mitchell: One of New Zealand’s most dependable all-rounders in pressure situations.
• Glenn Phillips: A dynamic middle-order batter and exceptional fielder who adds energy to the XI.
• Lockie Ferguson: New Zealand’s strike bowler, capable of producing match-winning spells with pace and bounce.

If these players find form at the right time, New Zealand could be extremely dangerous.

Surprise Inclusions and Notable Omissions

Surprise Inclusions

• Jacob Duffy earns his maiden T20 World Cup call-up after impressive recent performances.
• His selection signals a reward for domestic and international consistency rather than reputation alone.

Notable Omissions

• The absence of Kane Williamson from the T20 World Cup squad has drawn attention, reflecting New Zealand’s shift towards a more aggressive and flexible T20 setup.
• A few senior names have been left out as selectors focus on current form and role clarity.

Can New Zealand Win the ICC 2026 World Cup?

New Zealand may not start as outright favourites, but their ability to perform in knockout matches cannot be underestimated. If their bowlers deliver and the batting unit fires collectively, the Black Caps have every chance of making a deep run in the tournament.

Final Thoughts

New Zealand’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad reflects thoughtful planning, tactical balance, and a clear vision. With Mitchell Santner leading a versatile and experienced group, the Black Caps once again look capable of outperforming expectations on the world stage.