Will NZ Include Ben Sears as a Travelling Reserve for T20 WC?
Synopsis
New Zealand has announced that fast bowler Ben Sears will join their squad as a travelling reserve for the ICC T20 World Cup. This decision comes after Adam Milne's injury. Sears has shown impressive form, making him a key asset as the team prepares for the tournament starting February 7.
Key Takeaways
Ben Sears joins the New Zealand squad as a travelling reserve.
He replaces Adam Milne , who is out due to injury.
Sears has shown great form in the Super Smash , aiding his selection.
The T20 World Cup begins on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka .
New Zealand is in Group D, with their first match against Afghanistan .
Wellington, Jan 30 (NationPress) Fast bowler Ben Sears is set to join the New Zealand team as a travelling reserve for the ICC T20 World Cup, which kicks off on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka, as announced by NZC on Friday.
The 27-year-old will meet the T20 World Cup squad in Mumbai on Sunday prior to their warm-up game against the USA on February 5.
NZC confirmed that Sears will take the place of Kyle Jamieson, who was recently added to the main lineup after Adam Milne withdrew due to a hamstring injury.
Milne sustained this injury while playing in the SA20, with scans later confirming the severity.
Sears has been performing well for Wellington in New Zealand's domestic Super Smash tournament. Rob Walter, the head coach, remarked that Sears had made a promising return from the hamstring injury that sidelined him at the beginning of the home summer.
“Ben’s dedication to getting back on the field has been admirable, and it's been a pleasure to see him return and excel,” he noted.
“He had a complete Super Smash season with the Firebirds, finishing as the joint second-highest wicket-taker in the round-robin phase with 15 wickets from nine matches.
“Having Ben with us in India is fantastic, and he’s poised to make a significant impact at the World Cup if needed,” Walter added.
New Zealand is placed in Group D alongside Afghanistan, Canada, South Africa, and the UAE, with their first match on February 8 in Chennai against Afghanistan.
New Zealand squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi
Reserve: Ben Sears
Point of View
The inclusion of Ben Sears as a travelling reserve showcases New Zealand's commitment to maintaining a strong squad in the face of unexpected injuries. This strategic move is essential for the team's success in the ICC T20 World Cup, and it highlights the depth of talent within New Zealand cricket. With Sears' recent performance, he could play a crucial role in the tournament, ensuring the team's competitiveness.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will replace Adam Milne in the squad?
Ben Sears will replace Adam Milne as a travelling reserve in the New Zealand squad for the ICC T20 World Cup.
When does the T20 World Cup start?
The ICC T20 World Cup starts on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.
What group is New Zealand in for the T20 World Cup?
New Zealand is placed in Group D alongside Afghanistan, Canada, South Africa, and the UAE.
Where will New Zealand's opening match take place?
New Zealand's opening match will be held in Chennai against Afghanistan on February 8.
How has Ben Sears performed recently?
Ben Sears has been in excellent form, being the joint second-highest wicket-taker in the Super Smash competition.
