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As New Zealand prepares to face Bangladesh in a three-match ODI series, the Kiwis are riding on the momentum of a drawn recently concluded Test series.
The action kicks off on Sunday (December 17), at the picturesque University Oval in Dunedin. Following the opener in Dunedin, the action moves to Nelson for the second ODI on December 20. The series culminates in Napier on December 23, promising a thrilling conclusion to what is anticipated to be a closely contested battle between New Zealand and Bangladesh.
Strategic rest for senior players of New Zealand
In a strategic move, New Zealand have opted to rest key players, including Daryl Mitchell, Tim Southee, Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips and Devon Conway. This decision not only ensures the well-being of the senior players but also opens the door for fresh faces to make their mark.
Leadership transition: Tom Latham at the helm
With Kane Williamson absent, the responsibility of leading the team falls on the capable shoulders of Tom Latham. As a seasoned campaigner, Latham’s leadership will play a crucial role in guiding the team through the challenges posed by the dynamic Bangladesh side.
Uncapped talents in the mix
New Zealand have injected a dose of youth and potential by calling up three uncapped players: all-rounder Josh Clarkson, pacer Will O’Rourke, and leg-spinner Adithya Ashok. This series offers them a golden opportunity to make a strong impression and stake their claim in the national squad.
Also READ: New Zealand update ODI squad against Bangladesh after Kyle Jamieson’s injury
New Zealand’s top-choice XI for the ODI series against Bangladesh
1. Finn Allen (Opener): Finn Allen is a dynamic and aggressive opener known for his ability to take on bowlers from the outset. His aggressive approach at the top provides the team with early momentum and sets the tone for the innings. Allen’s range of shots and positive intent make him a key player in powerplays.
2. Tom Blundell (Opener): Blundell, a versatile cricketer, complements Allen at the top with his solid technique. Capable of playing both the anchor and aggressor roles, Blundell’s adaptability ensures stability during powerplays while having the ability to capitalize on loose deliveries.
3. Mark Chapman (Middle Order): Chapman is a technically sound batter who thrives in the critical number three position. His ability to rotate the strike, anchor the innings, and play crucial knocks makes him a linchpin in the middle order.
4. Tom Latham (Middle Order): Adi Ashok, occupying a middle-order slot, brings a blend of aggression and reliability. Known for his ability to accelerate when needed, Ashok provides the team with flexibility in its approach during the middle overs.
5. Will Young (Middle Order): Will Young is a seasoned top-order batter with a penchant for building innings. His calm and composed approach in the middle order stabilizes the batting unit, and he can play the role of a sheet anchor if early wickets fall.
6. Josh Clarkson (All-Rounder): As a dynamic all-rounder, Clarkson adds depth to the batting lineup. He possesses the ability to clear boundaries and chip in with valuable overs. His aggressive style makes him a potential game-changer in the middle overs.
7. Rachin Ravindra (All-Rounder): Ravindra, a promising young all-rounder, contributes with both bat and ball. His left-arm spin provides variety in the bowling attack, while he can be a handy lower-order batter capable of scoring quick runs.
8. Ben Sears (Pace Bowler): Ben Sears, included in the lineup, adds pace and aggression to the fast-bowling department. His ability to generate bounce and pace can be a valuable asset, especially in conditions that offer assistance to fast bowlers.
9. Jacob Duffy (Pace Bowler): Duffy, a seasoned pace bowler, brings experience to the fast-bowling contingent. His ability to swing the ball and deliver crucial breakthroughs makes him a reliable option with the new ball.
10. Adam Milne (Pace Bowler): Known for his express pace, Milne is a genuine wicket-taker. His ability to trouble batter with sheer speed and variations makes him a potent force in the pace attack.
11. Ish Sodhi (Spin Bowler): Ish Sodhi, a leg-spin specialist, introduces spin into the bowling lineup. His variations and ability to extract turn can be instrumental in controlling the middle overs and breaking partnerships.
This comprehensive lineup combines the experience of seasoned campaigners with the flair and potential of emerging talents, providing New Zealand with a well-rounded team for the ODI series against Bangladesh.
