New Zealand's all-rounder Michael Bracewell has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup 2026 due to a re-injured left calf, a major blow to the team's campaign. Bracewell had initially sustained the calf tear during the ODI series against India last month but had recovered in time for the World Cup. Unfortunately, he re-injured the muscle during warm-ups ahead of Sunday's win over Afghanistan. Cole McConchie, a seasoned campaigner and off-spinning all-rounder, has been named as Bracewell's replacement in the squad. McConchie brings a great all-round skillset and T20 experience to the team, and his inclusion will provide much-needed coverage for New Zealand's spin-bowling department. "We're all feeling for Michael," New Zealand head coach Rob Walter said. "It's really tough to get ruled out of a World Cup and I know how much playing for New Zealand means to him. "Michael worked incredibly hard to give himself a chance but unfortunately has had this setback. We wish him a smooth recovery. "Cole is a seasoned campaigner. He brings a great all-round skillset to the group along with a lot of T20 experience. It's great to be able to lean on an experienced head, especially for a World Cup." New Zealand head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment over Bracewell's injury, acknowledging the frustration of losing a versatile player to a recurring issue. "We're all feeling for Michael. It's really tough to get ruled out of a World Cup, and I know how much playing for New Zealand means to him," Walter said.