New Zealand 2022 T20 World Cup squad: Class of 2021 retained; Will the "black caps” spring a surprise?
New Zealand has announced its 2022 T20I World Cup squad. This time, they'll want to play their third consecutive World Cup final and win
Black CapsBlack Caps have always been the dark horse of the World Cup. The most consistent and powerful team has reached the back-to-back finals but failed to lift the trophy.
Black Caps have kept their squad for this world cup almost the same as they had in last year's World Cup. There are only three changes this year - Lockie Ferguson, Michael Bracewell, and Finn Allen have replaced Kyle Jamieson, Todd Astle, and Tim Seifert, respectively.
Captain Kane Williamson is all set to lead his team third time into ICC T20I World Cup. Apart from him, Martin Guptil became the first New Zealand player to appear at seven T20I World Cups.
New Zealand cricket this year has seen two players declining their central contract to focus more on family and league cricket globally. Trent Boult and Jimmy Neesham announced this a few weeks back but are included in the World Cup squad.
Two new entries in this year's squad will play their first World Cup for New Zealand
23-year-old Finn Allen, who missed getting the World Cup call last year, became the newest player to bag a central contract and be in the 2022 World Cup squad. Michael Bracewell, who only made his debut this year, got his maiden call after his good all-rounder performance.
"It's especially exciting for Finn and Michael who are set for their first ICC events, while Martin Guptill is preparing for his 7th T20 World Cup – which in itself is an incredible achievement," said coach Gary Stead.
Black Caps always had a rock solid attacking pace attack, and this year also, they will have seamers like Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, and Adam Milne to destroy batters on Australian fast pitches. While the pacers will be destructive in Australia, Ish Sodhi will likely lead the spin department supported by Mitchell Santner to complement seamers.
After wearing gloves in the UAE and recent series against West Indies, Devon Conway will be the frontline wicketkeeper.
New Zealand opened their T20 World Cup campaign against hosts Australia, at the SCG, on October 22. Before this, they will contest in the T20 Tri-Series with Pakistan and Bangladesh starting in Christchurch on October 7.