New Zealand have announced their ICC World Cup 2023 squad with Kane Williamson as the Kiwi captain.
New Zealand Cricket has named Kane Williamson as the captain for the ICC World Cup 2023, surprising many with his rapid recovery.
Following surgery on his right knee to repair a ruptured ACL sustained during IPL 2023, Williamson is set to lead the team. The squad announcement followed the Kiwis' second ODI loss to England in their four-match series.
This morning, the team for the upcoming tournament in India, set to begin on October 5th, was unveiled during an event held at Papatoetoe High School in Auckland, where one of the World Cup squad members, Ish Sodhi, once attended.
Experienced core and fresh faces: New Zealand's ODI World Cup squad
Kane Williamson and Tim Southee's selection in the 15-member World Cup squad marks their fourth appearance in the ODI World Cup.
Ben Stokes set to undergo knee surgery after World Cup 2023
On the other hand, the tournament will feature six Kiwi newcomers, including Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, and Will Young, all making their first foray into the ODI World Cup.
The inclusion of a group of fresh faces is complemented by a seasoned core that comprises Trent Boult, Matt Henry, and Tom Latham, each making their third appearance in 50-over World Cup squads.
Latham, who will serve as vice-captain, will continue as the wicketkeeper. The Canterbury man took 21 catches in the 2019 edition, matching the legendary Aussie wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist’s feat in the 2003 World Cup.
Lockie Ferguson, Jimmy Neesham, Mitchell Santner, and Ish Sodhi are part of the squad once again, having made their debut World Cup appearances in England and Wales four years ago.
Our 2023 @cricketworldcup squad introduced by their number 1 fans! #BACKTHEBLACKCAPS #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/e7rgAD21mH
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 11, 2023
Notably, the 2019 runner-ups did not call upon opening batter Finn Allen and top-order batter Henry Nicholls.
New Zealand's head coach, Gary Stead, openly acknowledged the tough decisions he had to make during the team selection process.
“It’s always a special time to name a tournament team and I’d like to congratulate the 15 players selected today. It’s a great honor to represent your country at a World Cup,” the 51-year-old said.
“From Kane and Tim heading to their fourth tournament to the guys selected for the first time, it’s always a very exciting time. As with any squad named for an ICC tournament, there have been some tough calls and there will be some disappointed players,” Stead added.
New Zealand narrowly missed out on the 2019 championship, finishing as runners-up in a thrilling final against England. Their journey in the 2023 edition will commence with a rematch against the reigning champions, England. On October 5, these 2019 finalists will open the tournament with a match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
New Zealand 2023 ICC World Cup squad
Kane Williamson (c), Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Will Young.
