Predicting New Zealand’s Playing XI for their encounter against India in ODI World Cup 2023

The Blackcaps look a dangerous side and a prominent contender to life the title this time around. They have absolutely dominated their opponents every time they have stepped on the field in this World Cup so far. But their unbeaten run would be put to the test by another undefeated side, India. The Kiwis would be challenging the Men in Blue in the fifth match of their campaign in Dharamshala. Let’s take a look at the probable Kiwi starting lineup against India.

Top Order

In Kane Williamson’s absence, the Kiwi top order has stepped up. Devon Conway is amongst the top run scorers in the tournament so far and he will have another great opportunity to go up in that table. His opening partner Will Young made a strong comeback in the side against Afghanistan and justified his place with a beautiful half-century against the Afghan bowling attack. 

New Zealand would rely on the talented left-hander Rachin Ravindra to fill the void of Kane Williamson at number 3. Ravindra surely has the potential to do that but he will come across a very tough challenge in the form of an in-form Indian bowling attack.

Middle Order

New Zealand middle order had a wonderful outing against Afghanistan in Chennai. Stand-in Captain Tom Latham once again scored a half-century and proved that he is there for his team when the situation demands. Glenn Phillis also played a brilliant knock on a challenging Chennai track and the best part was Mark Chapman contributing in the last phase of the innings. His role would be crucial in the lower middle order as the Kiwis would be expecting a final flourish from him. Mitchell Santner would also be handy with his all-round skills. It would be an arduous task for this middle order to continue their momentum against the formidable spin pair of Kuldeep Yadav and Jadeja. 

Bowling Unit

The Blackcaps have impressed everyone with their bowling exploits in this World Cup. The lethal pace trio of Trent Boult, Matt Henry, and Lockie Ferguson would enjoy operating in the perfect bowling conditions of Dharamshala. Trent Boult has troubled the Indian batters in the past and he would look to do well once again. Another important member of this pace attack, Matt Henry, has performed extremely well in this tournament and Indian batters should be wary of Henry.  

Mitchell Santner has been the best bowler in the World Cup so far as he is sitting at the top of the wicket-takers list with 11 wickets. He would be leading the spin attack for New Zealand with assistance from Rachin Ravindra and the part-timer Glenn Phillips. This would be a tough ask for the Kiwi bowling unit but they have enough resources to overcome the Indian challenge. 

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