New Zealand bolster pace attack with seven bowlers for India T20 series

New Zealand Cricket has unveiled a pace-heavy squad for the upcoming home T20 International series against reigning World Champions India, with white-ball captain Mitchell Santner leading the 16-member contingent across five matches spread over 11 days in four cities.

The selection includes seven frontline fast bowlers, highlighted by the return of 34-year-old Adam Milne, who missed the ICC Men's T20 World Cup with injury. Milne, who has not featured for the Black Caps since facing Zimbabwe over a year ago, joins an established pace unit comprising Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, and Jacob Duffy, alongside emerging talent Zak Foulkes and Nath, adding considerable depth to New Zealand's bowling resources.

Thirteen members of the squad that finished runner-up to India at this year's T20 World Cup have been retained, including spin all-rounder Michael Bracewell, who was also sidelined from the tournament through injury. The inclusion of World Cup finalists reflects continuity in New Zealand's T20I approach as they prepare to face the tournament champions in their own conditions.

The five-match series represents a crucial opportunity for New Zealand to refine their T20 setup ahead of future international commitments, with the pace-focused squad selection underscoring their strategic emphasis on fast bowling firepower.