Black Clash 2026 Teams: Full Rosters for Cricket vs Rugby

When rugby heavyweights and cricket legends step onto the same field, New Zealand takes notice. The 17 January 2026 showdown at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated crossover events in the sporting calendar, with Kieran Read leading Team Rugby and a wildcard signing already turning heads. Here’s everything confirmed so far—and what to watch as the date approaches.

Event Date: 17 January 2026 · Location: Bay Oval, Tauranga · Teams: Team Cricket vs Team Rugby · Broadcast: TVNZ1 or TVNZ+ · Format: T20

Here’s what we know so far about the 2026 edition of New Zealand’s premier crossover showdown.

Who is playing in Black Clash 2026?

The 2026 edition brings together New Zealand’s biggest sporting names across two codes, with rugby legends taking on cricket stalwarts in a fast-paced T20 format. The event, officially titled the Hot Springs Spas T20 Black Clash, continues its tradition of annual mid-January showdowns that began with the 2021 event.

Team Rugby roster

Team Rugby for 2026 is led by former All Blacks captain Kieran Read, who brings significant leadership experience to the squad. The roster already features several established Super Rugby players, with more additions expected before the event.

• Kieran Read — Captain (Official Black Clash roster listing)
• Michael Hussey — Wildcard (Official Black Clash roster listing)
• Joey Wheeler — Player (Official Black Clash roster listing)
• Andy Ellis — Player (Official Black Clash roster listing)
• Jason Spice — Player (Official Black Clash roster listing)
• David Hill — Player (Official Black Clash roster listing)
• Colin Slade — Player (Official Black Clash roster listing)
• Kaylum Boshier — Player (Official Black Clash roster listing)
• Ruben Love — Player (Official Black Clash roster listing)

According to the Official Black Clash website, additional players are set to be announced as the event date approaches.

Team Cricket roster

Details on the full Team Cricket lineup for 2026 have not yet been officially announced on the event’s primary website. The team traditionally features former New Zealand internationals and T20 specialists, with past editions including players like Neil Wagner, Jesse Ryder, and Kyle Mills.

What is T20 Black Clash?

The Black Clash is New Zealand’s premier T20 cricket versus rugby legends crossover event, positioning itself as sportainment that delivers a unique spectacle. Rugby and cricket icons compete in a shortened cricket format that creates fast-paced, unpredictable encounters.

Event history

The event has established itself as an annual tradition since 2021, consistently held in mid-January at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. The 2021 event launched the series, followed by editions in 2024 and 2025, with the 2026 showdown continuing the lineage.

Format and rules

The T20 format means each team faces a maximum of 20 overs, creating high-scoring, entertaining matches that typically wrap up within three hours. This condensed format suits the crossover nature of the event, where players from both codes bring different skill sets to the crease.

Where is the black clash in 2026?

The 2026 edition returns to Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, a venue that has become synonymous with the event’s Bay of Plenty setting. The ground, located in Tauranga’s neighbouring beachside suburb, offers spectators a premium cricket venue experience.

Venue details

Bay Oval serves as the host venue, with players from the 2026 event already visiting Tauranga Hospital ahead of the showdown as part of community engagement activities.

Getting there

Bay Oval is situated in Mount Maunganui, approximately a 15-minute drive from Tauranga CBD. The venue offers ample parking and is accessible from State Highway 29, making it straightforward for spectators travelling from across the Bay of Plenty region.

What channel is Black Clash 2026 on?

For viewers wanting to catch the action live, the 2026 edition will broadcast on TVNZ1 or TVNZ+, providing free-to-air coverage for New Zealand audiences.

Broadcast options

The confirmed broadcast partnership with TVNZ ensures wide accessibility across New Zealand, with the TVNZ+ streaming platform offering additional flexibility for viewers who prefer digital access.

Streaming details

TVNZ+ provides live streaming alongside traditional broadcast, allowing fans to watch the match on connected devices. The free access model means no paywall barriers for New Zealand audiences.

Black Clash 2026 teams list

While the Team Rugby roster is largely confirmed with eight named players plus captain and wildcard designations, the Team Cricket lineup remains under wraps. Here’s the current state of announced rosters.

Full players list

Team Rugby currently shows the following confirmed players on the Official Black Clash website:

• Kieran Read (Captain)
• Michael Hussey (Wildcard)
• Joey Wheeler
• Andy Ellis
• Jason Spice
• David Hill
• Colin Slade
• Kaylum Boshier
• Ruben Love

Team Cricket roster is pending official announcement.

Key players to watch

The wildcard slot filled by Australian cricketer Michael Hussey adds an intriguing cross-code dimension, demonstrating the event’s commitment to surprise selections that blur traditional sporting boundaries.

Black Clash history: past editions

Understanding the event’s trajectory helps frame what’s expected for 2026. The Official Black Clash website tracks the event’s timeline across its four confirmed editions to date.

The pattern is clear: mid-January, Bay Oval, and a consistent Saturday timing that positions the event as a highlight of the summer sporting calendar.

“Experience New Zealand’s most electrifying sporting crossover where rugby legends and cricket stars face off in a fast-paced, fun-filled T20 showdown.”

— Official Black Clash (Event Organizer)

“Sporting legends from two of New Zealand’s biggest codes will face off for the 2026 Hot Springs Spas T20 Black Clash at Mount Maunganui’s Bay Oval on Saturday.”

— NZ Herald Bay of Plenty Times (Regional News Reporter)

Related reading: Kids Rugby Boots NZ

Frequently asked questions

For fans planning ahead, the stakes are straightforward: secure tickets once released, tune in via TVNZ+, and watch as New Zealand’s rugby and cricket icons collide under the Bay Oval lights.