The eagerly anticipated ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is set to kick off in just a few weeks. This global spectacle will witness the world’s top ten cricketing nations battling it out for the coveted title of world champions. The tournament’s exciting journey will commence on October 5, with an exciting thriller contest between defending champions England against New Zealand. The stage for this thrilling showdown will be the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The 2023 World Cup games are planned to take place at ten various venues in India, comprising a total of 48 matches, with the grand final scheduled for November 19. Each of the 10 teams will compete against the other nine, and from this pool, four teams will earn a position in the semi-finals. Recently, the New Zealand Cricket Board also presented their 15-member roster for the 2023 World Cup, and they chose to do so in a unique way. Through a heartfelt video published on social media, the Black Caps unveiled their selected players in the presence of their families, including children and partners, adding an emotional and exciting touch to the news.
Notably, the NZC’s announcement marked the return of captain Kane Williamson, who had been sidelined due to an injury since March. Williamson’s injury occurred during the IPL 2023’s opening match between the Gujarat Titans and the Chennai Super Kings. After enduring knee surgery and even spending some time on crutches, his impressive recovery has earned him a position in the team. This comeback is certain to considerably improve the squad, given Williamson’s vital role both as a batsman and a leader.
However, there were some prominent absences from the squad. Veteran opener Martin Guptill was omitted, as did Michael Bracewell due to injury. Additionally, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen did not make the cut. On the positive side, spin all-rounders Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra secured spots in the team following their recent good results. The pace-bowling responsibilities will be split by Trent Boult and Tim Southee, with Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson adding firepower to the bowling assault. James Neesham, who missed the English ODIs, is back in contention. Meanwhile, the group possesses wicket-keeping options in Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, and Devon Conway.
New Zealand World Cup Squad:
Kane Williamson (c), Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Will Young.
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