New Zealand announces 15-member squad for World Cup; Jameson, Milne miss out

The Blackcaps have announced their 15-member squad for the World Cup scheduled to take place in India in October. The squad is on expected lines with the inclusion of Trent Boult Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra in the final 15 whereas fast bowlers Kyle Jameson and Adam Milne both of whom were ruled out of the ODI series against England did not find a place in the squad.

The selectors have also picked the experienced fast-bowling duo of Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson who will be supported by fast-bowling all-rounders Daryl Mitchell and Jimmy Neesham.

The Spin Department

Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner are the specialist spinners in the side. Michael Bracewell, the spin-bowling all-rounder, was unavailable for selection after suffering a right Achilles injury that’s sidelined him for six to eight months, and that opened doors for Neesham’s selection in the squad.

If we talk about the batting department New Zealand will be boosted by the comeback of regular captain Kane Williamson who has been out of action after suffering an injury during the opening match of IPL 2023 which ruled him out for at least six months. Another name that is a constant feature in the New Zealand side is that of wicketkeeper batter Tom Latham. He is a flexible batter who can bat at any position in the batting order which is evident by the fact that he has also opened for New Zealand on several occasions. Latham is also the vice-captain of the team which also includes the likes of Will Young and Devon Conway

Coach’s Corner

“We felt that Youngy was the right guy to go with,” head coach Gary Stead was quoted as saying. “We just felt that we looked through what the potential game plan was looking like in India, looked at the grounds, and also looked at the form of the two players as well

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 honour to represent your country at a World Cup,” Stead further 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. “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.” 

Squad: Kane Williamson (c), Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (vc, wk), Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Will Young