The New Zealand Cricket Board announced its final squad for the T20 World Cup. Having announced it much before the deadline, the Black Caps are the first team to do so.
The team held a press conference but it was hosted by 2 surprise guests who created waves across the internet.
https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1784776878412456164(EMBED)
The special guests, Matilda and Agnus, announced the members of the squad and their first class cricket teams in the press conference. The announcement was followed up by a note of best wishes to the team. The young ones also asked for questions from the media towards the end.
The squad announced did not hold any surprises for the audience. Kane Williamson was announced as the captain for the 15 man squad travelling for the tournament in June 2024 after the Indian Premier League ends.
https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1784773370711605516(EMBED)
The squad is made up of experienced players providing stability to the team. The management has shown faith in proven performers over the years. Tim Southee, Kane Williamson and Trent Boult are amongst the most experienced players in the squad.
Skipper Kane Williamson will make is 6th appearance in T20 World Cup, 4th as captain. Trent Boult will play the World Cup for the 5th time.
Tim Southee is the most experienced player in the squad, playing his 7th T20 World Cup. The veteran seamer is also the highest wicket taker in T20 internationals.
13 of the 15 member squad were a part of the West Indies Tour of 2022 and therefore have recent and first-hand experience of the conditions that will be on offer. 6 players have also featured in the Caribbean Premier League. This will provide an edge to the team as they can adapt to the conditions faster and perform better.
Matt Henry and Rachin Ravindra are the only members without experience of the T20 World Cup.
Ben Sears, a seamer, has been selected as a travelling reserve.
New Zealand’s squad for T20 World Cup 2024: Kane Williamson (c), Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Rachin Ravindra, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Jimmy Neesham, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi