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NZ vs BAN: Kane Williamson 'Finally' Returns As Kiwis Surprisingly Elect To Bowl

image-lnobqab7Williamson makes his return [AP Photo]

New Zealand can breathe a sigh of relief, as their regular skipper, Kane Williamson, has finally made a return to the international circuit. The Kiwi skipper suffered an ACL injury during IPL 2023, and had to go through vigorous rehabilitation process.

His absence wasn't felt in the first two World Cup matches, as the New Zealand team, led by Tom Latham won the matches rather convincingly. With two wins in as many matches, they'll be eager to continue the winning run under Williamson's leadership. As expected, Will Young makes way for Williamson, with the Kiwis only making a solitary change.

Toss Updates

The day couldn't have started on a brighter note for the Black Caps as Williamson won the toss and elected to bowl first.

New Zealand are second in points table, and a win here will take them to the top. The team has shown class in all three departments and will be eager to grab the two crucial points against Bangladesh.

Surprisingly, there is no Ish Sodhi in the playing XI, as the surface has the tendency to assist the spinners.

Talking about Bangladesh, they started the tournament with a win over Afghanistan, but were drubbed in their last match against England. For the Tigers, Mahedi Hasan misses out and Mahmudullah Riyad comes into the side.

Captain’s quotes

Kane Williamson: "We are going to bowl first. Looks a good surface and we'll try to make use of the conditions upfront.

Was nice to get some game time in the warm-up games. I was thinking of not being a part of this squad the whole time but really grateful to be standing here."

Shakib Al Hasan: "I was a bit confused. Wouldn't mind batting first. The ball will come onto the bat and should be good one to bat on. Don't know what will happen when the ball gets older.

Playing XIs

New Zealand Playing XI : Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson (c), Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Trent Boult, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson

Bangladesh Playing XI : Litton Das, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah Riyad, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Mohammad Shoriful Islam