The stage is set for another thrilling chapter in England’s white-ball story as Harry Brook’s side heads to New Zealand this October and November for a much-anticipated limited-overs series.
The tour features three IT20s and three ODIs, offering Head Coach Brendon McCullum the perfect chance to fine-tune England’s plans ahead of next year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. With both teams known for their aggressive, crowd-pleasing style, supporters can expect fireworks long before Bonfire Night arrives.
Team News
England
England’s squads brim with white-ball talent, reflecting both current form and a forward-looking approach under Brook’s leadership. Recent selections appear heavily influenced by The Hundred, signalling England’s intent to refresh and evolve their limited-overs setup.
Zak Crawley’s inclusion, following a standout campaign with the Northern Superchargers, adds extra depth to the batting order. The selectors have also kept faith with Sonny Baker, who shone in the domestic summer and looks on the verge of translating that promise to the international stage. Sam Curran, meanwhile, appears firmly established after a stellar franchise season in August, where he topped the charts for both wickets and sixes.
At the top of the order, Phil Salt and Jos Buttler bring their trademark aggression, while England’s youngest-ever captain, Jacob Bethell, continues to impress at number three – one of the most exciting young prospects in the T20 game.
In the ODI squad, Joe Root’s calm authority adds balance against New Zealand’s disciplined attack. He’ll be joined by Test teammates Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith, while Adil Rashid remains England’s go-to spinner across both formats. With Jofra Archer and Bryson Carse back in rhythm, England’s pace battery will be eager to hit top gear ahead of a big summer in Australia.
The Kiwis
For the hosts, the absence of Kane Williamson and injuries to several senior players create both challenges and opportunities. The return of captain Mitchell Santner, though, provides a timely boost and ensures New Zealand won’t go quietly. With two sides built on fearless, attacking cricket, this series promises to deliver the kind of drama and skill that white-ball fans love.
How the Squads Shape Up
England T20I Squad
Harry Brook (Captain), Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, Tom Banton, Zak Crawley, Jordan Cox, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Brydon Carse, Rehan Ahmed, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Luke Wood, Jamie Overton
England ODI Squad
Harry Brook (Captain), Jos Buttler, Jamie Smith, Tom Banton, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Luke Wood, Jamie Overton
New Zealand T20I Squad
Mitchell Santner (Captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Tim Seifert (wk)
Barmy Army Prediction
This one’s shaping up to be a cracker. New Zealand rarely roll over on home soil, and their conditions always test visiting sides. But with England boasting a potent mix of firepower, flair, and experience, Harry Brook’s men look well-equipped to rise to the challenge.
Expect close contests, a few standout performances, and plenty of drama – but we’re backing the lads to edge it.
Prediction: England to take both series – T20s 2–1, ODIs 2–1.
How to Watch: New Zealand vs England
Every match of England’s tour of New Zealand will be shown live on TNT Sports and streamed via Discovery+. (All times listed in GMT.)
IT20 Series
- 1st IT20: Saturday, October 18 – Hagley Oval, Christchurch – 7:15 am
- 2nd IT20: Monday, October 20 – Hagley Oval, Christchurch – 7:15 am
- 3rd IT20: Thursday, October 23 – Eden Park, Auckland – 7:15 am
ODI Series
- 1st ODI: Sunday, October 26 – Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui – 1:00 am
- 2nd ODI: Wednesday, October 29 – Seddon Park, Hamilton – 1:00 am
- 3rd ODI: Saturday, November 1 – Basin Reserve, Wellington – 1:00 am
TNT Sports is available on all major UK TV platforms and through Discovery+, which brings together TNT Sports, Eurosport, and a wide range of entertainment content in one destination.
Looking Ahead
While there are no official Barmy Army ticket allocations or organised tours to New Zealand this winter, England supporters have plenty to look forward to closer to home.
2026 promises thrilling white-ball action, with England set to host India and Sri Lanka at some of the UK’s most iconic cricket grounds. Tickets will be in high demand, so Barmy Army members are encouraged to book early and secure their spot in the stands for what promises to be an unmissable summer.
