WELLINGTON: In an eagerly awaited announcement, New Zealand’s cricket selectors revealed the squad that will represent the Black Caps in the upcoming 50-overs World Cup in India. Among the notable inclusions are Kane Williamson and Tim Southee, both seasoned campaigners in the world of cricket.
Despite battling his way back to full fitness following a serious knee injury sustained in April, Kane Williamson has been entrusted with the captaincy once again. This decision comes as no surprise, considering his remarkable leadership in the 2019 World Cup, where he steered New Zealand to the final and was named the tournament’s player of the series. With over 6,500 runs in one-day international cricket, Williamson’s return to the crease is anticipated to be a major boost for the Black Caps. However, the question remains whether he will be ready in time for the World Cup’s opening match against England on October 5 in Ahmedabad. New Zealand coach Gary Stead provided some insight, stating, We haven’t put a date on whether he will be available for that first game or not. That’s still three or four weeks away, and time will tell a little bit closer, but he is doing everything in his power to make that happen.
Tim Southee, the Test-match captain for New Zealand, brings his wealth of experience to the squad, leading a formidable bowling lineup that includes Trent Boult, one of the world’s finest ODI seamers. Boult’s return to the Black Caps was marked by an impressive performance, where he took three crucial wickets in Sunday’s match against England, helping secure a 79-run victory. It was Boult’s 100th ODI appearance and his first in nearly a year. Gary Stead praised Boult, stating, He’s a real weapon for us with the new ball. It was very pleasing to see, referring to Boult’s dismissal of England’s Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root, and Ben Stokes.
James Neesham, the talented all-rounder who played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s memorable run in the 2019 World Cup, has also been named in the 15-man squad. Neesham’s heroics in the final, which was decided by a thrilling Super Over, narrowly missed securing victory for the Black Caps.
While the squad boasts a mix of experience and fresh talent, it’s worth noting that only six members of the team will be participating in their first ODI World Cup. In contrast, both Tim Southee and Kane Williamson will be appearing in their fourth World Cup, highlighting their enduring value to New Zealand cricket.
The complete New Zealand squad for the World Cup includes Kane Williamson (captain), Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, and Will Young.
