Chapman, Foulkes ruled out of New Zealand's T20I series against India
New Zealand have suffered a double injury blow ahead of the NZ vs India T20Is, with Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes both ruled out of the five-match series. New Zealand Cricket confirmed the setbacks on Thursday, naming Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner as replacements.
The series, New Zealand’s home assignment against India, begins in Christchurch on October 22. Losing two all-rounders in one stroke has forced the hosts to reshuffle a squad that was close to full strength.
How the injuries happened
Chapman tore his left hamstring while playing in the European T20 Premier League last month, where he was representing Belfast Wolves. The good news for New Zealand is that he remains on track to be available for the one-day internationals against India that follow the T20I series.
Foulkes injured his right hip flexor during a training session with his domestic side Canterbury. His return-to-play timeline is still to be determined, leaving the team management waiting on further medical assessment.
The replacements
All-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner have been called into the squad. Head coach Rob Walter said he was grateful to have both available, adding: “I’m gutted for Mark and Zak and I wish them both a smooth recovery.”
Walter added that the pair were excited to be involved, saying: “We’re fortunate to be able to lean on the expertise of Josh and Blair. I know they’re both very excited to be involved in what’s shaping up to be an epic T20 series.”
Tickner’s recall is the more striking story. The pacer is set to play his first T20I in more than three years after a shoulder injury kept him sidelined last year. His most recent T20I appearance came against Pakistan, where he was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets for 33 runs.
What the injuries mean for the NZ vs India T20Is
Chapman and Foulkes were pencilled in as versatile middle-order options who could also contribute with the ball, a valuable combination in the shortest format. Their absence puts greater responsibility on New Zealand’s senior core, led by Mitchell Santner, and opens the door for Clarkson and Tickner to press their claims.
India, meanwhile, arrive with momentum and depth, and the hosts will need their replacements to settle quickly with the series opener less than two weeks away.
Which New Zealand players are injured?
Mark Chapman (left hamstring tear) and Zak Foulkes (right hip flexor) have been ruled out of the T20I series against India.
Who replaces Chapman and Foulkes?
All-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner have been called into the New Zealand squad.
When does the NZ vs India T20I series start?
The five-match series begins in Christchurch on October 22.
Will Chapman play the ODIs against India?
New Zealand Cricket says Chapman is on track to be available for the one-day internationals. Foulkes has no confirmed return date yet.
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