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Sport Nation
Super Smash Finals LIVE from 2pmSears Joins Blackcaps as T20 World Cup travelling reserve
Sport Nation • January 30th, 2026 12:50 pm
Photo: Andrew Cornaga/Photosport
Wellington Firebirds quick Ben Sears has been named as a travelling reserve for the Blackcaps ahead of the T20 World Cup in India.
The 27-year-old comes into the extended squad after Kyle Jamieson was promoted to the main group last week, filling the vacancy left by Adam Milne, who was ruled out with a hamstring injury.
Sears is set to join the squad in Mumbai on Sunday, linking up with the team in the lead-in to New Zealand’s warm-up clash against the United States on Friday (NZ time).
Blackcaps head coach Rob Walter on facing the India T20 machine | Millsy & Guy
Head coach Rob Walter said Sears had earned the opportunity following a strong return from injury after missing the early part of the home summer.
“Ben’s put in a lot of work to get himself back to full fitness, and it’s been really pleasing to see him back playing and contributing,” Walter said.
“He came through a full Super Smash campaign with the Firebirds and finished the round-robin as the competition’s joint second-highest wicket-taker, taking 15 wickets across nine matches.
“Having Ben with us in India adds valuable depth to the group, and he’ll be ready to step in and make an impact if required during the tournament.”
