In their quest to surpass their 2019 Final appearance, New Zealand has unveiled their 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. The announcement took place at Papatoetoe High School in Auckland, which holds special significance as the alma mater of leg-spinner Ish Sodhi, a key member of the selected squad.

The 30-year-old Ish Sodhi joins the squad alongside skipper Kane Williamson, who recently made a quicker-than-expected recovery from a ruptured ACL during the 2023 IPL. Both Williamson and seasoned fast bowler Tim Southee have secured spots in their fourth World Cup campaign.

Mark Chapman, displaying strong form across the two white-ball formats, earned his place in the squad. Additionally, 23-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder Rachin Ravindra, who impressed with a performance of 3/48 against England in the first of four ODIs, has also been included.

The squad selection came with tough decisions, resulting in the exclusion of young top-order batter Finn Allen and backup wicket-keeper Tim Seifert. Tom Latham has been chosen as the sole wicket-keeper. Unfortunately, Adam Milne, who suffered a recent hamstring injury during New Zealand’s tour of England, did not make the cut.

New Zealand coach Gary Stead acknowledged the challenges of finalizing the squad but expressed confidence in the blend of youth and experience they have assembled for the tournament in India.

Stead stated, “It’s always a special time to name a tournament team, and I’d like to congratulate the 15 players selected today. It’s a great honor to represent your country at a World Cup. From Kane and Tim heading to their fourth tournament to the guys selected for the first time, it’s always a very exciting time.”

He added, “As with any squad named for an ICC tournament, there have been some tough calls and there will be some disappointed players. The key for us was finding the right balance for the squad and making sure we had our bases covered for what is going to be a very competitive tournament.”

The New Zealand squad is set to face England and Bangladesh in ODIs before encountering England once again in a highly anticipated rematch of the 2019 Final, serving as the World Cup opener on October 5th.