New Zealand team for the 2024 T20 World Cup
2024.04.29
As New Zealand became the first side to reveal their roster for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June, Kane Williamson was selected captain.
For the ninth iteration of the 20-over showcase, the Kiwis announced their 15-player team on Monday. The Black Caps, meanwhile, selected an experienced group that features Williamson and the quick bowling tandem of Tim Southee and Trent Boult.
Williamson will be participating in his sixth T20 World Cup and his fourth as captain. Boult will be making his fifth appearance, and Southee will be making his seventh as the Kiwis look to win their first title in the game’s shortest international format.
The absence of all-rounder Adam Milne (ankle) and key pacer Kyle Jamieson (back) from the tournament due to injuries, as well as the absence of Will O’Rourke, Tom Latham, Tim Seifert, and Will Young from the squad despite their recent strong performances against the white ball, did not come as a major surprise.
Moreover, there was no surprise return of seasoned top-order batsman Colin Munro, as the selection committee chose to add new talent Rachin Ravindra, along with fast bowler Matt Henry, as one of just two players who had never played in a T20 World Cup.
In case they need him, the Kiwis will also go with promising bowler Ben Sears to the West Indies and the USA.
With a well-balanced group, New Zealand coach Gary Stead is optimistic about his team’s performance throughout the month-long competition.
On June 7, New Zealand will play their opening match of the T20 World Cup against Afghanistan in Guyana. Group C matches with co-hosts West Indies, Uganda, and Papua New Guinea will come after.
New Zealand Squad: Kane Williamson (C), 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
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