Fast-rising New Zealand pacer Ben Sears has earned a spot as reserve for the T20 World Cup, set to ignite from February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. NZ Cricket revealed the update Friday, with Sears arriving in Mumbai Sunday to bolster the Black Caps.
He’s replacing Kyle Jamieson in reserves after Jamieson covered for injured Adam Milne, whose SA20 hamstring blow—confirmed by scans—ended his involvement. Sears arrives in red-hot touch from Wellington’s Super Smash heroics.
The young quick claimed 15 scalps in nine games, sharing second place among round-robin wicket-takers. Coach Rob Walter singled out his recovery from an earlier hamstring absence.
“Ben’s relentless training brought him back stronger; his Super Smash dominance with the Firebirds was a joy,” said Walter. “Having him on hand in India ensures we’re covered for World Cup injury risks.”
In Group D with Afghanistan (first opponents on February 8 in Chennai), Canada, South Africa, and UAE, New Zealand’s squad features captain Mitchell Santner, Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi. Sears is the reserve.
This savvy selection enhances depth in the pace department, signaling New Zealand’s intent to navigate tournament turbulence effectively and chase glory.