New Zealand to set juggle fast bowlers after selecting T20 World Cup squad

With that in mind, Jacob Duffy is set to feature in his first global tournament while paceman Adam Milne and seam-bowling allrounder were also included in the 15-man squad.

"With Ferguson and Henry's partners due to give birth during the tournament period it is likely they will be granted short-term paternity leave," a NZC statement said.

Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert were selected in a strong batting group but that means Tim Robinson, who scored a century against Australia in October, has missed out.

"As always, the balance of the squad is critical," Black Caps head coach Rob Walter said.

"We've got plenty of power and skill in the batting, quality bowlers who can adapt to conditions, plus five all-rounders who all bring something slightly different.

"This is an experienced group and the players are no strangers to playing in the sub-continent, which will be valuable."

New Zealand start their T20 World Cup campaign against Afghanistan in Chennai on 8 February with further group matches against Canada, South Africa and the UAE.

New Zealand T20 World Cup squad: Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Adam Milne Wellington, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi | Traveling reserve: Kyle Jamieson

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