New Zealand has unveiled their squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, with Kane Williamson leading the charge as captain. The Kiwis, the first team to announce their lineup, have opted for an experienced squad featuring key players like Tim Southee and Trent Boult.
This marks Williamson’s sixth appearance at a T20 World Cup and fourth as skipper, with Southee and Boult bringing their wealth of experience to the table as well.
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While there were no major surprises in the squad, injuries ruled out Kyle Jamieson and Adam Milne. Notably absent are players like Will O’Rourke, Tom Latham, Tim Seifert, and Will Young, despite their recent good form in white-ball cricket.
Colin Munro didn’t make a shock return, with selectors instead opting for young talents like Rachin Ravindra and fast bowler Matt Henry, both set to make their debut appearances at a T20 World Cup.
The Kiwis have also included young pacer Ben Sears as a traveling reserve, showcasing their depth and readiness for any unforeseen circumstances.
Coach Gary Stead expressed confidence in the squad’s balance and their ability to adapt to varied conditions expected in the West Indies.
New Zealand’s campaign begins against Afghanistan in Guyana on June 7, followed by matches against co-hosts West Indies, Uganda, and Papua New Guinea in Group C.
Here’s the complete squad:
Kane Williamson (Captain), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee. Travelling Reserve: Ben Sears.
Teams have until May 25 to make any changes to their squad, subject to approval from the ICC’s Event Technical Committee.