New Zealand T20 Squad for England announced; Kane Williamson's future uncertain

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) have announced the squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against England, starting on Saturday, October 18, in Christchurch. Star batter Kane Williamson, who last represented the national side during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, has not been included in the squad.

Williamson signed a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket to focus on franchise and other commitments over international fixtures. He skipped the Zimbabwe tour to play county cricket and The Hundred 2025. The right-handed batter also withdrew from the recent T20I series against Australia on home soil.

Kane Williamson Excluded from New Zealand Squad for England T20Is

Kane Williamson, who returned to New Zealand on October 9, was initially expected to feature in the upcoming T20Is against England ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, set to be played in India and Sri Lanka.

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However, New Zealand head coach Rob Walter revealed that the 35-year-old is recovering from a minor medical issue and requires additional time to regain full fitness.

The veteran cricketer hasn’t played a T20I since New Zealand’s early exit in the 2024 World Cup. He is likely to rejoin the side for the ODI series against England beginning on October 26.

"Kane had to overcome a minor medical issue in the past month, and we agreed he needs some more time to get himself physically ready to return," Walter said.

"He's obviously a world-class player and we're hoping these two weeks will ensure he's ready for the ODIs against England and the following tour by West Indies," he added.

Mitchell Santner Returns to Lead, Rachin Ravindra Set for Comeback

Mitchell Santner has returned from abdominal surgery to lead the team, while Rachin Ravindra is set to make a comeback after recovering from a facial injury sustained during fielding practice ahead of the Australia T20Is.

However, the squad has been hit by several injuries. Fast bowler Ben Sears has been ruled out after an MRI confirmed a left hamstring tear that will sideline him for up to four weeks.

Finn Allen (foot), Adam Milne (ankle), Will O’Rourke (back), Glenn Phillips (groin), and Lockie Ferguson (hamstring) are also unavailable for selection. Wrist-spinner Ish Sodhi has been dropped from the squad.

Jimmy Neesham, Kyle Jamieson, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, and Zak Foulkes have retained their places in the squad.

It's Great to Have Mitchell Santner Back - Rob Walter

Rob Walter expressed his delight over Mitchell Santner’s return. He also mentioned that Rachin Ravindra was unfortunate to miss the Australia series but is eager to contribute in the upcoming matches.

"It's great to have Mitch back," Walter said. "Alongside being our leader, he's one of the very best white-ball spinners in the world and his skills and experience will be a welcome addition.

"Likewise, it's nice to welcome back Rachin who was unlucky to miss out on Australia and I know is really excited for this series."

Squad: Mitchell Santner (C), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Tim Seifert (wk)

Also read: Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Kings teammate confirms his participation in T20 World Cup 2026