Michael Bracewell Ruled Out of T20 World Cup 2026 After Calf Injury Setback
New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has been ruled out of the rest of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 after hurting his left calf again. The 34-year-old Bracewell had been working his way back from the calf tear he sustained during the third ODI against India last month but suffered a recurrence during warm-ups on Sunday before the Afghanistan game.
Scans later confirmed the injury, and he is expected to need about three weeks to recover before playing again. Head coach Rob Walter said this setback was a tough blow for Bracewell.
"We're all feeling for Michael," Walter said. "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 Bracewell ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026 with calf injury
"Michael worked incredibly hard to give himself a chance but unfortunately has had this setback. We wish him a smooth recovery."
New Zealand have named Cole McConchie as a backup player, but he has not been officially added to the squad yet. McConchie, who has played 145 T20s, comes in on the back of a very successful domestic campaign, finishing as Canterbury Kings' leading wicket-taker with 14 wicket at an economy of 7.71. Walter added that McConchie's experience would be valuable in the tournament environment.
"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," he added.
New Zealand will play their third Group D match on Saturday, June 14, against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
