Netherlands started the World Cup 2023 campaign with a loss vs Pakistan
As the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad gears up for Match 6 of World Cup 2023, between the Black Caps of New Zealand and the men in orange, the Netherlands, the cricket fraternity eagerly awaits the fascinating player battles on offer.
NZ vs NED: Five Player Battles To Watch Out For
With the Kiwis having started their campaign with a thumping win over England, while the Dutch found themselves at the wrong end of the result against Pakistan, this contest is set to be a defining one for both teams.
Vikramjit Singh vs Trent Boult
Trent Boult (Twitter)
Undoubtedly one of the most anticipated battles of the match, the face-off between Vikramjit Singh and Trent Boult will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Vikramjit's recent track record against left-arm seamers, especially during the Powerplay, has been a mixed bag. He has amassed 107 runs but has fallen prey six times, averaging a modest 17.8. With Boult's exceptional ability to swing the ball early on, this contest will be a game of cat and mouse.
Will Young vs Logan van Beek
Logan van Beek (Twitter)
Will Young, known for his aggressive style of play, will lock horns with Logan van Beek. Their previous encounters have seen Young score 51 runs at a strike rate of 124.4, with van Beek dismissing him once. As Young aims to stamp his authority early on, van Beek would look to exploit any weakness and give his side an early breakthrough.
Bas de Leede vs Matt Henry
Matt Henry (Twitter)
Bas de Leede's struggle against Matt Henry is evident. In their previous face-offs, de Leede has managed just 3 runs off 13 balls and has been dismissed by Henry once. While it's a small sample size, the psychological edge is clearly with the Kiwi pacer. De Leede will need to find a way to counter Henry's tactics and break the shackles.
Devon Conway vs Aryan Dutt
Devon Conway (Twitter)
The classic battle of a left-handed batsman against off-spin is set to be rekindled as Devon Conway takes on Aryan Dutt. The orthodox logic of off-spinners being effective against left-handed batsmen will be tested, as Conway, known for his finesse and technique, will look to navigate through Dutt's variations.
Scott Edwards vs Mitchell Santner
Scott Edwards (Twitter)
Scott Edwards' susceptibility against left-arm spin in international cricket is well-documented. He has accumulated 271 runs, but with 12 dismissals, his average against the spin type stands at 22.58. Mitchell Santner, a seasoned campaigner for the Kiwis, would hope to capitalize on this apparent vulnerability. With his variations and flight, this matchup could be crucial in the middle overs.