Williamson’s return and batters form big boost for Kiwis
October
12, 2023: New Zealand take on
Bangladesh in another day-night encounter at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai
on Friday. The black caps start as firm favourites having beaten Bangla Tigers
in all five previous meetings in the ODI World Cups and familiarity with the
venue due to IPL experience. The return of inspirational leader Kane Williamson
following a seven-month long injury layoff will strengthen the team further,
which currently stands at no. 2 in the points table. Bangladesh will hope for
their slow bowlers to deliver in spin-friendly conditions at Chennai, which saw
Indian spinners bamboozle Australia on Sunday.
Both
the teams have been involved in one-sided contests against defending champions
England with contrasting fortunes. While New Zealand comfortably knocked over
England in the opening match, Bangladesh suffered a big 137-run loss at
Dharamshala.
Key
players to watch out for New Zealand will be Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra.
Both have been in sensational form in recent times and are amongst the leading
scorers in this world cup. Ravindra’s spin bowling along with Mitchell Santner’s
bowling form will present a challenge to opposing team batters.
The
experience of playing for Chennai Super Kings will be handy for number of Kiwi
players including Conway and Santner. Kane’s return also means Mark Chapman may
have to sit out of this encounter. For Bangladesh, quality allrounders Mehidy Hasan
Miraz and Shakib Al Hasan will look to exploit spin-friendly dry conditions at
Chepauk. They also have quality pacers in their ranks who can move the ball and
reverse swing with the old ball. Litton Das has been in sublime form and will
look for support and more intent from middle-order batters in the side.
Bangladesh
do have the ability to surprise major oppositions, but it will be a formidable
challenge to beat New Zealand who will be keen to maintain their unbeaten run
in this tournament.
- Girish, Team Pure Cricket
No comments:
Post a Comment