ODI World Cup 2023: New Zealand's strongest predicted playing XI against Pakistan

New Zealand (NZ) faces Pakistan (PAK) in the 35th showdown of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore. The Kiwis have secured 4 victories and suffered 3 losses from their 7 encounters, accumulating 8 crucial points. Unfortunately, their recent form has been a cause for concern, with three consecutive defeats, the latest one against South Africa. It's high time for the Kiwis to regroup and bounce back, as they gear up to take on Pakistan.

Rachin Ravindra has been a standout performer for the Kiwis in this World Cup, ranking among the leading run-scorers with an impressive riot of runs from 7 innings, boasting a stellar average of close to 70. The left-handed batter is expected to thrive on this pitch. Meanwhile, Glenn Phillips showcased his prowess in the recent clash with South Africa, notching up a stylish half-century. This innings could well be the spark he needed to regain his form.

Here's New Zealand's Predicted XI against Pakistan:

Openers: Will Young, Devon Conway

Will Young managed 33 runs in the South Africa match but couldn't capitalize on the chance for a substantial score. Over 6 matches, the right-handed batter has collected 246 runs, including 2 half-centuries. With Kane Williamson sidelined Young is seizing the opportunity and demonstrating his value to the team.

Devon Conway's last outing saw him dismissed with just 2 runs on the board in the encounter against South Africa. In the span of 7 games, Conway recorded a remarkable century but couldn't deliver a substantial innings in the remaining matches. He's certainly eager to put up an improved performance in the upcoming game.

Middle Order: Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman

Rachin Ravindra stands as the leading run-scorer for New Zealand in the ICC World Cup 2023. The southpaw has notched up an impressive tally of 415 runs in 7 innings, maintaining an average of over 69. His remarkable performance includes two centuries and two half-centuries from 7 matches. In addition to his batting prowess, the left-arm spinner has contributed with the ball, securing 3 valuable wickets.

Daryl Mitchell is set to bolster the New Zealand middle order in the upcoming showdown with Pakistan. The right-handed batter has been in exceptional form, accumulating 346 runs in just 6 innings at a remarkable average of 69.20. Notably, he achieved a century in one match and secured half-centuries in two other encounters.

Tom Latham's performance in the World Cup 2023 has left room for doubt. While his leadership skills may be a topic of discussion among strategists, his batting prowess has raised significant concerns. Thus far, the southpaw has managed 151 runs across 5 innings, registering two half-centuries. Latham faces the challenge of addressing these concerns in the upcoming clash against Pakistan.

Also Check: Most Runs in ODI World Cup 2023

Glenn Phillips delivered a splendid performance with a remarkable 60-run innings against South Africa. His valuable contributions extend beyond batting, as he is a valuable asset in New Zealand's bowling department. Phillips, the right-handed batter, has tallied 186 runs in 6 innings, featuring two half-centuries. His off-spin has yielded 6 wickets in 7 matches, maintaining an economical bowling rate of 5.34.

James Neesham's injury forces him out of the upcoming match against Pakistan, potentially paving the way for Mark Chapman's return. Chapman had been sidelined earlier due to an injury, but indications point to his fitness for the forthcoming game. The left-handed batter has contributed 36 runs in 3 innings, notably playing a brisk 25-run cameo in one match.

All-rounder: Mitchell Santner

Mitchell Santner will take on the role of a spin all-rounder for New Zealand in the Pakistan match. While his batting has been inconsistent, his bowling skills have made up for it. The left-arm spinner leads the team in wickets in the ICC World Cup 2023, with an impressive haul of 14 wickets in 7 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 5.03.

Bowlers: Tim Southee, Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson

Tim Southee's much-anticipated comeback didn't unfold as he might have hoped. Making his first appearance in the tournament against South Africa, the right-arm pacer managed to claim 2 wickets but was a touch expensive, with an economy rate of 7.70, conceding 77 runs during his 10-over spell. It was a topic of discussion in the cricketing community.

Trent Boult, set to be another pace option for the team, stood out in the recent match. In contrast to many other bowlers who were expensive against South Africa, Boult posted an exception-worthy economy rate of 4.90. He also claimed a solitary wicket in that game. Across 7 matches, the left-arm pacer has secured 10 wickets while maintaining an economy rate of 5.09.

New Zealand faces a significant setback as they will be without two pivotal pacers, Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson, due to injuries. To address this shortage, Kyle Jamieson has been summoned as a backup. With no more pace options available in the squad, it's highly probable that Jamieson will feature in the playing XI against Pakistan.

Also Check: Most Wickets in ODI World Cup 2023