We pride ourselves on as a group is being able to adapt as best we can: Tom Latham

The ODI World Cup 2023 is right around the corner, and with the event all set to begin on October 5, the best teams in world cricket will have their eyes set on putting on a good performance in the tournament and potentially getting their hands on the coveted title.

Like always, New Zealand will once again be one of the favourites to perform to the best of their abilities and be one of the best sides in the entire competition. It is also worth noting that New Zealand will kick off the World Cup by taking on England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on October 5.

Ahead of their clash, the side was hit with a major setback as Tim Southee and Kane Williamson are doubtful to play in the season opener as they are still recovering from injuries and are not yet ready to play. Speaking of the same, stand-in skipper Tom Latham came forward and highlighted the side’s ability to adapt to dire situations. 

"Obviously, the end goal is to be there at the end [of the tournament], which I'm sure every team has, but I think something we pride ourselves on as a group is being able to adapt as best we can. We are lucky that we have guys who have played plenty of cricket in these parts of the world, whether it be against India or in the IPL,” Tom Latham was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. 

"We have got that mix of experience where we are able to lean on guys around. [Some] guys have played at this ground, some guys haven't. So adapting is a really important part of playing over in these conditions that can change throughout the game. It is being able to think on our feet a little bit and make sure we stay ahead of the game,” he added.

Despite the setbacks, New Zealand have been able to perform up to par. The side played against Pakistan and South Africa in warm-up games ahead of the World Cup and emerged victorious in both matches. The team will be hopeful of a similar performance against England in the first game of the tournament and will be keen on starting off with a win.