Martin Guptill Out, CSK Star In; New Zealand's 3 Likely Squad Changes For Champions Trophy

Ravindra replaces Guptill [Source: @HustlerCSK/X.Com]

Another ICC tournament is upon us and this time the Champions Trophy returns after a 8-year hiatus. The competition will be hosted in Pakistan and in Dubai in a hybrid model as teams fight it out to win the coveted competition.

When ICC tournament comes up, there is one team which is known as the most consistent sides in cricket history - New Zealand. They won the Champions Trophy in 2000, and wil be gunning for their second title as their journey begins on February 19 against the hosts, Pakistan.

Champions Trophy was last hosted in 2017 and since then a plethora of changes has taken place in the New Zealand squad. However, in this piece, we look at 3 massive changes which the management has made in the last 8 years.

3) Retired Guptill out, Rachin Ravindra In

Martin Guptill, one of the best openers in New Zealand history retired recently and he will be replaced by the rising CSK star, Rachin Ravindra.

Guptill is the only Kiwi batter with an ODI double century and was vital in their ODI success. However, with him retiring, Ravindra will take the mantle forward and is likely to open in the upcoming Champions Trophy. Just like Guptill, Ravindra can bat with caution and if needed, csn go berserk just like his predecessor.

2) Daryl Mitchell replaces Ross Taylor

New Zealand, over the years have produced some quality batters and one of them was Ross Taylor. The Kiwi batter is certainly their top-5 batter and replacing him in the squad was always going to be difficult.

However, in the last couple of years, Daryl Mitchell has stepped in and has become the batting mainstay in the middle order. He can also chip in with the ball in hand and thus, it makes him a brilliant commodity for the side.

Mitchell, in the last couple of years has done well for the Kiwis and will be a key player if the Black Caps are to win the Champions Trophy.

1) Matt Henry in place of Trent Boult

With no Tim Southee and Trent Boult in the side, the bowling onus lies on the shoulders of Matt Henry, who has suddenly become their key asset with the white-ball.

Boult was one of the best in the world during his prime and replacing him was always a tough ask, but the Kiwis have done extremely well as Henry has filled in his shoes with his brilliant performances.

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