New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has named a 15-man squad for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 in India, which will take place from October 5 to November 19.
ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023
Despite still healing from a major knee injury, Kane Williamson will lead the Black Caps, as revealed last week. He is, however, in a race to be healthy in time for New Zealand’s first match.
New Zealand Cricket
The star batter has been out since April after undergoing surgery to repair torn ligaments in his right knee while playing in the Indian Premier League for Gujarat Titans.
Williamson’s deputy will be wicketkeeper batter Tom Latham, who is presently leading New Zealand. He holds the record for the most dismissals (21) by a wicketkeeper in a single World Cup edition.
Pace bowlers Tim Southee and Kane Williamson will compete in their fourth ODI World Cup, having previously played in 2011, 2015, and 2019.
Our 15 for the @cricketworldcup in India! More | https://t.co/D2jqxQxWeE #BACKTHEBLACKCAPS pic.twitter.com/wIlzA5N3qU
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 10, 2023
Whether it was your first or fourth tournament, BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead said it was a thrilling day for everyone involved.
Coach Gary Stead
“It’s always a special occasion when a tournament team is named, and I’d like to congratulate the 15 players chosen today.” It is an incredible honour to represent your country in a World Cup.
“From Kane [Williamson] and Tim [Southee] heading to their fourth tournament to the guys selected for the first time, it’s always a very exciting time.”
Debuts of Six NZ Players
Six New Zealand players are making their World Cup debuts in India.
“As with any squad named for an ICC tournament, there have been some tough calls and there will be some disappointed players,” Stead said.
“The key for us was finding the right balance for the squad and making sure we had our bases covered for what is going to be a very competitive tournament.”
The defending champions England will face New Zealand in the World Cup opener on October 5 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
To read our blog on “For ICC World Cup 2023, Afghanistan announced its squad,” click here