Who are New Zealand's potential opening batsmen for the World Cup?

New Zealand has four main options for opening: Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Tim Seifert, and Rachin Ravindra.

How are injuries affecting New Zealand's World Cup squad selection?

Injuries to players like Michael Bracewell and Adam Milne are forcing New Zealand to test contingency plans and potential replacements.

Can Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, and Devon Conway play together for New Zealand?

While they played together recently, it's uncertain if all three will feature in the World Cup XI due to competition for spots.

Home / Sports / NZ's World Cup Batting Puzzle: Who Opens?

NZ's World Cup Batting Puzzle: Who Opens?

20 Jan

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Summary

New Zealand faces tough opening selection choices for the World Cup.
Injuries and player form present selection challenges for the T20 squad.
Contingency plans for injuries are being tested before the World Cup.

NZ's World Cup Batting Puzzle: Who Opens?

New Zealand's T20I series against India serves as a vital tune-up for the upcoming World Cup, with several selection dilemmas to resolve. The primary concern is identifying the optimal opening pair, with Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Tim Seifert, and Rachin Ravindra all vying for the top spots. Recent form in domestic leagues, particularly from Allen and Seifert, contrasts with performances in recent international fixtures, complicating the decision-making process.

Further selection complexities arise with the potential for Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, and Devon Conway to feature in the same XI, although their World Cup participation together remains uncertain. Injuries also pose a significant threat, with Michael Bracewell's calf strain highlighting the need for robust contingency plans. Glenn Phillips emerges as a strong candidate to fill any potential void left by Bracewell, offering both batting prowess and useful off-spin.