New Zealand have announced their squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and the biggest talking point is the inclusion of fast bowler Jacob Duffy. After a remarkable year with the ball, Duffy earns maiden T20 World Cup selection and will feature in a global event for the first time in his career. The tournament will begin next month in India, and New Zealand are aiming to make a strong impact with a balanced and experienced squad.
Jacob Duffy’s Big Break After Outstanding 2025
The headline of New Zealand’s squad announcement is clear — Duffy earns maiden T20 World Cup selection after a sensational 2025. Jacob Duffy enjoyed the best year of his career, finishing the calendar year with 81 international wickets across formats. His consistency, pace, and ability to perform under pressure impressed the selectors and coaching staff.
For Duffy, this is not just another tour. Duffy earns maiden T20 World Cup recognition after years of hard work and steady improvement. His performances in recent series showed that he can adapt quickly to different conditions, which is vital in a tournament set to be played in India. New Zealand head coach Rob Walter praised the balance of the squad and highlighted how players like Duffy bring confidence and momentum into the team.
The pace attack looks strong, with Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, and Adam Milne joining Duffy. Once again, Duffy earns maiden T20 World Cup spot among an experienced bowling unit, while James Neesham adds flexibility as a seam-bowling all-rounder. Veteran spinner Ish Sodhi returns to the World Cup stage, alongside captain Mitchell Santner, to lead the spin department.
Strong Squad, Tough Group, And Big Expectations
With Duffy earns maiden T20 World Cup selection being the major highlight, New Zealand have also named a powerful batting lineup. Finn Allen and Tim Seifert are expected to open the innings, with Seifert handling wicketkeeping duties. Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra provide depth, skill, and firepower in the middle order.
Santner will captain an experienced group that includes Daryl Mitchell and Michael Bracewell, both key all-round options. Once more, Duffy earns maiden T20 World Cup opportunity in a squad that blends youth with experience. Kyle Jamieson has been named as the travelling reserve and may feature if required, especially as Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson could take short-term paternity leave during the tournament.
Rob Walter expressed confidence in the squad, saying the players are familiar with subcontinent conditions and capable of making New Zealand proud. As Duffy earns maiden T20 World Cup recognition, expectations will be high for the pacer to deliver on the big stage.
New Zealand are placed in Group D alongside Afghanistan, South Africa, UAE, and Canada. Their campaign begins against Afghanistan in Chennai on February 8, followed by matches against UAE and Canada at the same venue. The high-voltage clash against South Africa will take place in Ahmedabad on February 14.
With a balanced team, experienced leadership, and the excitement that comes when Duffy earns maiden T20 World Cup selection, New Zealand will hope this squad can challenge strongly for the title.
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