New Zealand name T20I squad with Ravindra ruled out

New Zealand selectors named a 16-man squad for the five-match T20I series against India beginning October 22, 2026 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, with Rachin Ravindra ruled out after dislocating his right shoulder during a promotional shoot last week. Mitchell Santner will captain the side, which retains 13 players from the squad that finished runner-up to India in the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup final in March. The two teams meet for the first time since that final. Ravindra's rehabilitation is expected to take around six weeks, with selectors targeting his return for the ODI series against India that begins November 4. New Zealand head coach Rob Walter said the team is handling the all-rounder's recovery carefully. "Were gutted for Rachin. Hes going to play a big role for us this summer so its important that he doesnt rush his rehab, but were optimistic hell be back for the ODIs," Walter said. Fast bowler Ben Sears was also unavailable for selection as he continues to recover from an ankle injury. Adam Milne returns to the squad after missing the T20 World Cup through injury, having last represented New Zealand against Zimbabwe more than a year ago.