New Zealand lose Chapman, Foulkes before India series

New Zealand have been dealt a blow ahead of their upcoming T20I series against India, with Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes both ruled out through injury.

Chapman suffered a hamstring problem while playing in a European T20 competition last month and will miss the entire series. The batter is targeting a return for the subsequent ODI matches against India. Foulkes, meanwhile, is sidelined with a hip flexor issue, and no recovery timetable has yet been established. Their absence has opened the door for all-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner, who have been called into New Zealand’s 16-player squad.

Black Caps coach Rob Walter expressed his disappointment for the injured pair but backed the replacements to contribute. The five-match series begins in Christchurch on October 22 and renews a rivalry that saw India defeat New Zealand by 96 runs in this year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final.