NZC to announce T20 World Cup squad on 20th September, Kyle Jamieson likely to be ruled out

New Zealand Cricket is set to announce their T20 World Cup 2022 squad on September 20, and pacer Adam Milne might find himself a place in the roaster for the marquee event as Kyle Jamieson, a fellow quick bowler, will miss out from the team for the competition, which begins in Australia next month.

Milne was out of the squad during New Zealand’s tour of Australia due to an achilles injury sustained while playing against Ireland in July. New Zealand had a disappointing run throughout the series and ended up losing 0-3. It is understood, however, that Milne has made progress and may be available for selection, though he would need to make clear that he is fit to play.

He might be put to test during the T20I tri-series against Pakistan and Bangladesh which New Zealand will be hosting, and all the games will be played at Christchurch. The tri-series will prove to be critical for all three teams as it will help them prepare for the forthcoming World Cup. Milne has participated in 31 T20 international matches, taking 32 wickets at an average of 26.68 and 7.84.

Throughout his career, the 30-year-old has struggled with a number of ailments. Lockie Ferguson's calf tear brought him into the squad after he was chosen as injury cover during the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE last year, where New Zealand ended as runners-up after losing the summit clash to Australia.

A report by Stuff.co.nz stated that if the selection committee believes Milne won't be ready, Matt Henry might be the backup seamer if the side strain, that prevented him from playing in the third ODI against Australia, turns out to be only a temporary setback. On the other hand, Jamieson suffered a back injury while playing against England, and he has been out of the setup ever since.

New players likely to get maiden World Cup callups

The ICC has granted the Black Caps additional time past the deadline for announcing the lineup for the Twenty20 World Cup due to logistical reasons. The composition of the New Zealand team shouldn't come as a surprise as the Black Caps squad has witnessed quite a few promising faces coming into the side since their previous stint at the tournament.

NZC handed contracts to opening batter Finn Alen, who has been in fine touch recently, and also Blair Tickner. Michael Bracewell has proved to be a crucial player in Black Caps’ bowling attack, and he too might get a chance of representing his team at the global event.