As New Zealand gears up for the upcoming ODI World Cup, their preparations have faced a setback with the absence of key batter and skipper Kane Williamson due to injury. Williamson’s leadership and batting prowess will undoubtedly be missed by the team. Having finished as runners-up in the 2019 World Cup, the Kiwis are determined to make a strong statement this time.
Their journey commences on October 5th, with a high-stakes match against defending champion England in Ahmedabad. The team’s quest for the coveted title is underscored by their previous success and their relentless pursuit of excellence, as they aim to overcome challenges and make their presence felt on the global cricket stage once again. So, in today’s article, we will discuss three Kiwi players who can determine the fate of a team in the marquee event.
3. Mitchell Santner
Mitchell Santner emerges as a vital asset for New Zealand’s campaign in the forthcoming ODI World Cup in India. Due to his previous track record and exploiting spin-friendly tracks, he might be a key asset for them. Santner’s proven track record in the Indian subcontinent, exemplified by his 36 wickets in 31 matches across formats, underscores his proficiency on these challenging pitches.
His 12 wickets for the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL further solidify his credentials as a spin maestro. Importantly, Santner’s value is heightened by the dearth of quality spinners in the Kiwi squad. His experience and success in navigating spin-friendly conditions make him a potent weapon. In New Zealand’s quest for World Cup glory in an environment where spin mastery can often prove to be a decisive factor, Santer will need to step up for his team.
2. Trent Boult
Trent Boult‘s inclusion will be crucial for New Zealand in the upcoming ODI World Cup in India. His extensive experience in the Indian subcontinent is evident from his impressive record of 15 Test wickets and 10 ODI wickets in the subcontinent. He has been a deadly force in the Indian Premier League, where he has been phenomenal. He has taken 81 wickets in the IPL, making himself one of the most successful Kiwi pacers.
As a left-arm pacer, Boult’s ability to swing the ball and extract movement off the pitch can prove to be a game-changer on subcontinental tracks. His mastery of different conditions and formats makes him a dependable bowler who can provide crucial breakthroughs, adding a potent edge to New Zealand’s bowling arsenal as they aim to clinch the ODI World Cup title.
1. Devon Conway
Devon Conway is likely to emerge as a vital asset for New Zealand in the upcoming ODI World Cup. His experience and adaptability in these conditions make him a standout contender. With 155 runs in 3 ODIs at an average of 51.6 and a strike rate of 117, including a century on Indian soil, Conway has showcased his ability to thrive on subcontinental pitches.
His exceptional stint in the IPL with Chennai Super Kings, amassing 924 runs in 22 matches at an impressive average of 48.6 and a strike rate of 141.3, further solidifies his credentials. Conway’s prowess as a top-order batter and his familiarity with Indian conditions position him as a potential game-changer for New Zealand in their pursuit of ODI World Cup glory