T20 World Cup 2024: New Zealand’s strongest predicted playing XI against West Indies, Match 26

New Zealand (NZ) are all set to continue their ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign by taking on the hosts, West Indies (WI). Both sides will face off at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, Trinidad, on Thursday, June 13.

Notably, New Zealand will be coming into the game on the back of a loss in their previous clash against Afghanistan. Coming on the back of a big upset, the Black Caps will hope for an improved performance against the West Indies, and it could be interesting to see what lineup New Zealand fields in the clash.

Openers: Finn Allen, Devon Conway (Wk)

New Zealand are most likely expected to open with the duo of Finn Allen and Devon Conway. Both batters failed to perform to the best of their abilities in the previous game, as Allen was sent packing on the very first ball he faced for a duck. 

On the other hand, Devon Conway had a forgettable outing against Afghanistan as well. Scoring just eight runs in 10 deliveries, Conway will hope for an improved performance in the upcoming game against the West Indies. 

Middle order - Kane Williamson (C), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman

New Zealand’s middle order could be led by skipper Kane Williamson. The veteran batter needs no introduction. Being one of the best batters in world cricket, Williamson will have a lot of responsibilities on his shoulders. However, he will be coming into the game on the back of a subpar showing where he scored just nine runs to his name. Williamson will hope to bounce back and perform against the West Indies.

Check Here: T20 World Cup 2024 Most Runs

Glenn Phillips could be a part of the playing XI once more. The star batter was the highest run scorer for his side in the loss against Afghanistan, where he managed to score 18 runs in just as many deliveries. On the other hand, Mark Chapman scored just four runs in his previous game before he was dismissed by Rashid Khan. 

All-rounders - Daryl Mitchell, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner

New Zealand’s all-rounder lineup is where the team could play its best cricket. Daryl Mitchell could be one of the all-rounders present in the playing XI. Mitchell scored just five runs in his previous game and failed to take any wickets in the one over that he bowled. He will hope for an improved performance in the upcoming game.

Michael Bracewell had a forgettable start to the T20 World Cup 2024 as well. Getting out for a golden duck, Bracewell conceded 27 runs in the three overs that he bowled. Mitchell Santner could be the final all-rounder in New Zealand’s lineup against Afghanistan. Scoring four runs, Santner bowled four overs in his previous game where he conceded 24 runs and took no wickets. 

Bowlers - Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry

New Zealand’s bowling attack is where the team could look to shine. Trent Boult could spearhead the Black Caps’ lineup. With two wickets and 22 runs conceded in four overs, Boult put in a brilliant performance in his previous game and he will look to make an instant impact once more.

Check Here: T20 World Cup 2024 Most Wickets

Lockie Ferguson could be another big performer for New Zealand, with one wicket in his previous game, Ferguson’s spell could be crucial for the Black Caps if they are looking to register their first win of the season. Another pacer in Matt Henry could complete New Zealand’s playing XI, with two wickets in his previous game, Henry’s performance could be one to look out for the West Indies.

New Zealand Playing XI:

Finn Allen, Devon Conway (wk), Kane Williamson (c), Michael Bracewell, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Philips, Mark Chapman, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry.