NEWZEALAND WORLD CUP SQUAD PREVIEW
The Kiwis will once again start the mega tournament as underdogs but will aim to dominate the grand event contrary to expectations. Throughout World Cup history, they have been a strong team with frequent appearances in the knockout stages but have failed to achieve ultimate glory. The hunt continues this year as well.
World Cup Over the Years:
In the first edition of the T20 World Cup in 2007, under the leadership of Daniel Vettori, New Zealand reached the semifinals. However, in the next four editions, they failed to qualify for the knockout stages. In 2016, under Kane Williamson's leadership, New Zealand again reached the semifinals but were defeated by England. Five years later, in 2021, they progressed further and reached the finals of the World Cup, only to be beaten by Australia. In 2022, they had a strong unit to defend the title but were outplayed by Pakistan in the semifinals.
Squad for 2024 T20 World Cup:
New Zealand will again look to perform to their true potential in the 2024 World Cup, with their squad boasting a mix of fresh faces and experienced players.
Batters: Kane Williamson, Finn Allen, Mark Chapman
Wicketkeeper: Devon Conway
All-rounders: Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Jimmy Neesham, Mitchell Santner
Fast Bowlers: Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry
Spin Bowler: Ish Sodhi
Under the leadership of their successful captain Kane Williamson, New Zealand will be looking to make their mark in this mega event. R. Ravindra and M. Henry will be making their T20 World Cup debuts. They have an explosive opening duo in F. Allen and D. Conway and a middle order boasting the likes of their captain Williamson, Phillips, and D. Mitchell. The spin department is handled by veterans Sodhi and Santner, both of whom are economical and wicket-takers. The experience of Boult taking wickets in the first over, along with the formidable duo of Southee and Ferguson, as well as Henry, make a strong fast-bowling unit. Overall, the team looks settled for all conditions and good enough to clinch the title.
