New Zealand head coach Rob Walter has confirmed that fast bowler Kristian Clarke will remain with the Black Caps squad in India for the opening three T20Is of the upcoming five-match series, serving as injury cover for all-rounder Michael Bracewell. Bracewell’s availability for the T20I series remains uncertain after he sustained a minor left-calf strain during the third and final ODI against India in Indore.

New Zealand created history at the Holkar Stadium by defeating Shubman Gill’s India by 41 runs in the series decider, sealing their first-ever bilateral ODI series win on Indian soil. However, Bracewell’s injury slightly tempered the celebrations, as the all-rounder was unable to bowl in the match after picking up the niggle while fielding.

“Bracewell will be treated and monitored over the coming days before a decision on his further involvement in the tour is confirmed,” Rob Walter said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket, underlining the cautious approach being taken with the key all-rounder.

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Despite the injury concern, Rob Walter reflected fondly on the landmark ODI series triumph, praising his side’s collective effort. “It was incredibly special to win the ODI series and create some history. There were lots of special performances combined with fantastic teamwork to achieve something that hadn’t been done before,” he said.

Bracewell has travelled with the squad to Nagpur, where the T20I series begins on Wednesday, but Walter stressed the importance of recovery given the tight turnaround between formats.

“Michael has travelled with the squad to Nagpur. With a short turnaround to the T20 series, we’ll need to recover well and refocus quickly to be ready for the opening game,” he added. Walter also confirmed that Clarke will stay on with the touring party amid ongoing squad adjustments. “We’ve got a fair bit of player movement at the moment, with some guys returning from injury, others joining from franchise cricket, and a few coming straight off the ODI series and Super Smash,” he explained.

The decision to retain Clarke is primarily aimed at bolstering New Zealand’s pace resources for the early part of the T20I series.

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“We want to ensure we’ve got enough pace-bowling options for the first three games. It’s a great opportunity for Kristian to stay with the group a little longer on his first tour of India,” Rob Walter said.

Clarke impressed during his maiden ODI series, claiming seven wickets, dismissing Virat Kohli twice, contributing valuable lower-order runs and taking two sharp catches. Walter reserved special praise for the young pacer’s temperament. “He certainly showcased his talent, but what stood out was his calmness and ability to perform under pressure,” he concluded.