New Zealand is one of those teams, who always end up making a huge statement in the ICC events, and the T20 World Cups are no different. Yes, they are yet to lift a World Cup trophy either in ODIs or in T20Is, but are always a big threat. In fact, they went on to make the last 4 in three consecutive editions, 2016 finished 3rd, 2021 finished runners up, and 2022 finished fourth.
Now, come the 2026 edition, they have compiled a really strong side, and it would be safe to say, are a serious contender for semis at least. Though the Mitchell Santner-led team would like to win here. InsideSport takes a look at the predicted NZ XI for the T20 World Cup 2026.
Predicted New Zealand XI for T20 World Cup 2026
| Player | Role |
| Tim Seifert | Keeper/Batter |
| Devon Conway | Opener |
| Glenn Phillips | All-rounder |
| Daryl Mitchell | All-rounder |
| Rachin Ravindra | All-rounder |
| Mark Chapman | All-rounder |
| Michael Bracewell | All-rounder |
| Mitchell Santner | All-rounder |
| Matt Henry | Bowler |
| Jacob Duffy | Bowler |
| Ish Sodhi/ Kyle Jamieson | Bowler |
Explosive batting unit
The Kiwis have compiled a squad that has exceptional batting skills, right till no.8 in their line up. One can start with Seifert, whose SR stands at 142, followed by Conway at 127. Phillips strikes at 141, while Mitchell strikes at 140. Lower down, Rachin has an SR of 134 and can accelerate as well. So, that aspect pretty well covered.
All-rounders galore with Kiwis
One thing in India is, you need spinners in your ranks; part-timers. On a given day, the main spinners can very well go for runs on flat wickets, but the part-timers should be capable enough, to produce the magic ball. Chapman, Rachin, Phillips.. all can do that role.
Excellent fast bowling reserves
While Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, and Kyle Jamieson get to be in the XI, look at the ones to miss out. Lockie Ferguson will be on the bench along with James Neesham, who is effectively an all-rounder. Picking a fast bowling unit from these will be a tough job, but it will be a good headache to have for the Kiwis.
New Zealand cricket team: Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Kyle Jamieson, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi.
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