Auckland, Oct 10:
New Zealand have suffered a double injury setback ahead of their five-match T20 International series against India, with batter Mark Chapman and fast bowler Zak Foulkes ruled out.
The series begins in Christchurch on October 22 and concludes in Hamilton on November 1. All-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner have been drafted into the squad as replacements.
Chapman, 32, is recovering from a tear in his left hamstring sustained while playing in the European T20 League last month. The left-handed batter, who has featured in 113 T20 Internationals, is targeting a return for the subsequent ODI series against India.
Foulkes injured his right hip flexor during a recent training session with Canterbury. There is no confirmed timeline for his return to action.
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter said losing the two players was a significant setback ahead of the series. However, he expressed confidence in the replacements, noting that Clarkson and Tickner would bring valuable experience to the squad.
The five-match series will begin in Christchurch, which will also host the second T20I on October 24. The third match is scheduled in Wellington on October 27, followed by the fourth in Auckland on October 30, before the teams meet for the final match in Hamilton on November 1.