Off-spinning all-rounder Michael Bracewell has been ruled out of the remainder of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup after reinjuring his left calf.
Bracewell rehabilitated the calf tear he sustained during the 3rd ODI against India last month but reinjured the muscle during warm-ups on Sunday.
Subsequent scans confirmed the injury which is expected to require approximately three weeks recovery before returning to play.
Off-spinning all-rounder Cole McConchie will travel to India to join the squad as a travelling reserve alongside pace-bowler Ben Sears.
Canterbury Kings captain McConchie last represented New Zealand in April 2024 and joins the squad off the back of a successful domestic T20 campaign as the Kings leading wicket taker with 14 wickets at an economy rate of 7.71.
BLACKCAPS head coach Rob Walter said he was saddened for Bracewell.
“We’re all feeling for Michael,” said Walter.
“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 set back.
“We wish him a smooth recovery.”
Walter said McConchie, who has played 145 T20s (12 of them internationals), would bring valuable experience.
“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.”
McConchie is set to assemble with the squad on Friday 13.
The BLACKCAPS will play their third Group D match on Saturday 14 against South Africa at 2.30am NZT.
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