New Zealand has won the toss and chosen to bowl first against Bangladesh in their second Champions Trophy group-stage match. Mitchell Santner, the team’s captain, confirmed this decision at the toss, stating that the team aims to take advantage of the playing conditions in Rawalpindi.
- Daryl Mitchell is not playing due to illness.
- Rachin Ravindra replaces him in the playing XI.
- Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, and Glenn Phillips will play crucial roles in the middle order.
- Mitchell Santner leads the bowling attack with Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, and William O’Rourke.
Why Is Daryl Mitchell Missing the Match?
Daryl Mitchell is a key batter in New Zealand’s middle order. However, in the first match against Pakistan, he scored only 10 runs. Despite this, his exclusion is not related to performance.
As confirmed by Mitchell Santner, Mitchell is unwell and has been replaced by Rachin Ravindra in the squad. This change affects New Zealand’s batting strategy, with Ravindra now expected to contribute significantly.
New Zealand’s Batting Strategy Without Mitchell
Without Mitchell, Devon Conway, Will Young, and Rachin Ravindra will be responsible for giving New Zealand a strong start. The middle order will be held together by Kane Williamson, who brings experience and stability.
Other important batters include:
- Tom Latham, an in-form wicketkeeper-batter.
- Glenn Phillips, known for his attacking style.
- Michael Bracewell, a valuable all-rounder.
New Zealand’s Bowling Attack
New Zealand’s bowling department will be led by captain Mitchell Santner. The team will rely on its pace attack to make early breakthroughs.
The main bowlers for this match:
- Matt Henry, a reliable pacer.
- Kyle Jamieson, known for his bounce and accuracy.
- William O’Rourke, adding depth to the squad.
New Zealand’s Playing XI vs Bangladesh
Here is the confirmed playing XI for New Zealand:
Batters & All-Rounders:
- Devon Conway
- Will Young
- Kane Williamson
- Rachin Ravindra
- Tom Latham (wk)
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
Bowlers:
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Matt Henry
- Kyle Jamieson
- William O’Rourke
Impact of Mitchell’s Absence on New Zealand
The absence of Daryl Mitchell means New Zealand will depend on their top-order batters for a good start. Meanwhile, the middle order must ensure stability, and the bowlers will need to control Bangladesh’s batting lineup.
This match is crucial for New Zealand in their Champions Trophy campaign, and they will look to secure a dominant win despite this unexpected change in their squad.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
