Most Matches For New Zealand In T20Is Ft. Mitchell Santner (Source: AFP)
Mitchell Santner made history by becoming New Zealand's most-capped player in T20I cricket on November 1, 2026.
The left-arm spinner achieved this milestone during the fifth T20I against India at Seddon Park in Hamilton, going past experienced leg-spinner Ish Sodhi, who previously held the record with 142 appearances for the Black Caps.
New Zealand won the toss and elected to bowl first in the IND vs NZ 5th T20I match of the five-game series. India had already secured the series with a 3-1 lead after winning three consecutive matches.
Having said this, in this article, let's look at the top 5 New Zealand players with the most matches in the T20I format.
5. Daryl Mitchell – 109* Matches
Daryl Mitchell has become an important member of New Zealand’s T20I setup with his consistent performances in the middle order. He has played 109 T20I matches between 2019 and 2026, scoring 2,026 runs at an average of 27.75.
The star player has also contributed with the ball, taking nine wickets in the format.
4. Martin Guptill – 122 Matches
Martin Guptill was one of New Zealand’s most dangerous opening batters in T20I cricket. He represented the country in 122 matches between 2009 and 2022, scoring 3,531 runs at an average of 31.81.
Guptill's aggressive batting style and ability to provide quick starts made him a crucial player for the Black Caps.
3. Tim Southee – 126 Matches
Tim Southee is one of New Zealand's most experienced fast bowlers and played a major role in the team's success across formats. He featured in 126 T20I matches between 2008 and 2024.
Southee has picked 164 wickets at an average of 22.38, including two five-wicket hauls. His best bowling figures are 5/18. His experience, swing bowling and ability to take wickets in important moments make him a part of the Black Caps’ bowling attack.
2. Ish Sodhi – 142 Matches
Ish Sodhi held the record for the most T20I matches for New Zealand before Mitchell Santner surpassed him. The leg-spinner has played 142 matches between 2014 and 2026.
Sodhi has taken 165 wickets at an average of 23.01, making him New Zealand’s leading T20I wicket-taker among these five players. His best bowling figures are 4/12.
1. Mitchell Santner – 143 Matches
Mitchell Santner tops the list after becoming New Zealand’s most-capped T20I player with 143 appearances between 2015 and 2026. He surpassed Ish Sodhi's previous record of 142 matches during the fifth T20I against India.
Santner has scored 1,117 runs at an average of 20.30, with a highest score of 77 not out. With the ball, he has taken 151 wickets at an average of 23.09, including best figures of 4/11.
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