Playing the World Cup is a big dream for any cricketer. The New Zealand Cricket Board chose a novel way to paint that dream moment. Not selectors or coaches, this year’s Kiwi World Cup squad has been announced by their loved ones. Someone’s wife, someone’s fiancee, and someone’s father or grandfather came and told the news of their being in the group.
There was even variation in team announcements. New Zealand star cricketer Ish Shodhi’s old school World Cup squad has been announced by the board in Auckland. Kane Williamson, the regular captain of the team, has been announced in this team after overcoming all fears. Even a month ago there was apprehension about him. He was expected to miss the World Cup after an injury in the IPL.
But Williamson is back. And you will understand the responsibility of his captaincy. Wicketkeeper Tom Latham has been deputized. Two experienced pacers Tim Southee and Trent Boult have made their place in the World Cup squad as expected.
Six cricketers have got a chance for the first time in the New Zealand team for this World Cup. Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Darrell Mitchell and Glenn Phillips have been in the T20 World Cup squad in the past but this is the first time they have got a chance in the ODI World Cup squad. Young all-rounders Rachin Ravindra and Will Young also got a chance in the senior ODI World Cup squad for the first time. Lockie Ferguson, Jimmy Neesham, Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi, who were part of the previous World Cup squad, are also in the World Cup squad this time.
New Zealand’s 15-member squad
Kane Williamson (captain), Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (vice-captain and wicketkeeper), Darrell Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee and Will Young.