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New Zealand will be playing against Sri Lanka in the 41st match of the World Cup 2023 (Source: AP Photos)
The 2023 World Cup has taken an interesting turn with various teams fighting for their positions. While few teams are hustling for the no.4 spot in the semi finals, the eliminated ones are fighting to finish in the top seven so that they qualify for the 2025 Championship Trophy.
New Zealand and Sri Lanka will be squaring off in match 41 of the coveted tournament. The game will be staged at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru and set to commence at 2:00 PM IST. This will be the final game of the league stage for both teams.
Sri Lanka are already out of the semi-final race but still have something to play for. It's not just about the pride but about the 2025 Champions Trophy. Currently, they are positioned no.8 in the points table with two wins from eight matches. They will have to win a game and hope Bangladesh, Netherlands and England does not get to six points with a better NRR.
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The Kiwis will be blazing all guns out for a victory. They have played eight matches, won and lost four. The were victorious in the first four game and are now on a four-match losing streak. They have been a bit unlucky at times, especially against Australia and Pakistan. A win won't cement their position for the semis. They will have to win by a big margin so that Pakistan and Afghanistan finds it difficult to overhaul.
So let us have a quick look at the New Zealand predicted XI against Sri Lanka
Openers: Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra
New Zealand pruned Will Young in the last game because their regular skipperz Kane Williamson was back. In that case, Rachin Ravindra will open the batting with Devon Conway. Conway has blown hot and cold in the competition while Ravindra has set the stage ablaze. He has smashed 523 runs from 8 innings that includes three tons- against England, Australia and Pakistan.
Conway on the other hand, has been topsy turvy with the bat since his 150 against England. He did get starts but failed to convert it into bigger numbers.
Middle Order: Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham and Mark Chapman
Williamson was back from injury and straight away scored a mesmerising 95 against Pakistan in the last game. He batted in just two innings in the marquee event and scored fifties on both occasions. Although the Mount Maunganui-born wasn't fully fit, he will be a part in this must-win encounter.
Daryl Mitchell is the next best run-getter for New Zealand. He scored a brilliant ton against India but unfortunately it came in a losing cause. Mitchell has adapted to different roles in various matches. At times he disguised as a stabiliser and at times he played the role of a finisher.
Tom Latham and Mark Chapman will play the role at the lower middle order. The former did a good job in leading the side in the absence of Williamson but failed to lead with the willow in hand. Chapman has played some quickfire innings in the tournament that often goes unnoticed. Nevertheless, he could be backed by the team if Jimmy Neesham is not fully fit.
All-rounders: Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner
Glenn Phillips has stood when no one else did. It's not just with the bat but also with the ball in hand. The South Africa-bred cricketer is one of the key assets of New Zealand and will retain his spot. Another important member of the team is Mitchell Santner. The all-rounder has been one of the most economical bowlers of the tourney and snapped 14 wickets in eight matches. He can also contribute with the bat lower down the order.
Bowlers: Trent Boult, Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson
Trent Boult and Tim Southee should be the new ball options for New Zealand. The Double 'T' duo has carried the Kiwi bowling department for a decade and will be key in this must-win encounter. They could be assisted by Lockie Ferguson who had an Achilles injury earlier. Ferguson is available only if he is match-fit. On batting paradise such as Chinnaswamy, bowlers with extra pace come handy.
New Zealand Predicted XI against Sri Lanka
Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson (c), Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Trent Boult, and Lockie Ferguson.
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