New Zealand Key Players Mark Chapman, Zak Foulkes Ruled Out of India T20s

New Zealand will start their five-match T20I series against India without Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes after injuries forced both players out of the squad, leaving coach Rob Walter to bring in two replacements before the October 22 opener.

New Zealand Cricket confirmed the changes on Friday, naming all-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner in place of the injured pair. The opening match will take place in Christchurch, with the two sides preparing for a busy home summer that also includes five ODIs and two Test matches.

Chapman Hopes to Return for ODIs

Chapman sustained a tear in his left hamstring while playing in the European T20 League last month. The injury rules him out of the T20I leg, but New Zealand are hopeful he will recover in time for the subsequent ODI series.

His absence leaves a gap in the batting group as New Zealand prepare to face an Indian side that beat them by 96 runs in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup final earlier this year.

Foulkes faces a less certain recovery timeline. The fast bowler injured his right hip flexor during a Canterbury men's training session, and the team has not set a date for his return.

Losing a batter and a pace option at the same time forces New Zealand to adjust both departments. Clarkson offers an all-round option, while Tickner adds another fast-bowling choice to the squad.

Walter Calls Up Two Replacements

Walter expressed his disappointment at losing the pair but backed the replacements to make the most of their opportunity.

"I'm gutted for Mark and Zak and I wish them both a smooth recovery," the coach said, adding that New Zealand were fortunate to have Clarkson and Tickner available.

The New Zealand vs India T20 series will run across five matches, beginning in Christchurch on October 22. New Zealand will then continue the wider tour with five ODIs and two Tests, making Chapman's expected return for the 50-over leg an important point to watch.

New Zealand's Updated T20I Squad

Position	Player
Captain	Mitchell Santner
Batters and wicketkeepers	Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Bevon Jacobs, Tim Seifert
All-rounders	Michael Bracewell, Josh Clarkson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips
Fast bowlers	Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner

The revised 16-member squad includes Clarkson and Tickner in place of Chapman and Foulkes. Santner will continue to lead the side as New Zealand prepare for their first T20I against India.

For Chapman, the immediate target is recovery ahead of the ODIs. Foulkes, meanwhile, will need further assessment before a return date can be established.