Sri Lanka secured their fifth bilateral ODI series victory of the year with a thrilling 3-wicket win over New Zealand in the second match of the 3-game series. Opting to bat first, New Zealand faced interruptions from rain, which hampered their momentum. The top order faltered early, with Tim Robinson and Henry Nicholls departing cheaply. Will Young provided brief resistance but was dismissed for 26. Mark Chapman and Glenn Phillips steadied the innings briefly with a 39-run partnership before Phillips fell for 15. Chapman found a reliable partner in Mitchell Hay, and their 75-run stand was the highlight of New Zealand's innings. Chapman top-scored with 76 off 81 balls, while Hay contributed a vital 49. However, the lower order collapsed, leaving the visitors with a modest total of 209 runs. Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay were the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka, claiming three wickets each.

Chasing 210 under DLS conditions, Sri Lanka faced an early wobble, losing key batters like Avishka Fernando, Pathum Nissanka, and Charith Asalanka cheaply. Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with a composed unbeaten 74 off 102 balls, showcasing his class and maturity. Despite wickets tumbling around him, Mendis found valuable support from Janith Liyanage (22) and later Maheesh Theekshana (14*), who contributed a crucial 47-run partnership for the eighth wicket to see Sri Lanka home with seven balls to spare. New Zealand's Michael Bracewell put up a spirited fight, bagging 4 wickets for 36 runs—his career-best List A figures—but his efforts couldn’t prevent Sri Lanka from sealing the series in style. The victory, fueled by Mendis’ brilliance, was met with resounding applause from the home crowd, underlining Sri Lanka's dominance in ODI cricket this year.

See Also:  Dominant England secure 3-1 white-ball series triumph over West Indies

Analyzing Kusal Mendis's 74 runs against NZL bowlers

Kusal Mendis' masterful innings of 74* off 102 balls was the cornerstone of Sri Lanka's thrilling 3-wicket victory over New Zealand in the second ODI, which also sealed the bilateral series. Facing a challenging chase of 210 runs under DLS conditions, Mendis displayed remarkable composure and skill to anchor the innings. His ability to handle New Zealand's bowling attack with precision ensured Sri Lanka emerged victorious in a closely fought contest. Each bowler tested him differently, but Mendis adapted seamlessly, playing a calculated and match-winning knock.

Against Glenn Phillips, Mendis started cautiously, scoring 17 runs off 22 balls at a strike rate of 77.3. He carefully rotated the strike while punishing the occasional loose delivery. His ability to keep Phillips at bay with a dot-ball percentage of 36.4 ensured that the pressure did not build too much during the crucial middle overs. Ish Sodhi's leg spin posed a significant challenge, but Mendis tackled it skillfully, scoring 24 runs off 23 balls with three boundaries. His strike rate of 104.3 against Sodhi reflected his confidence in taking on the spinners when required.

Jacob Duffy faced the full force of Mendis’ controlled aggression. In just 6 balls, Mendis scored a brisk 10 runs at a strike rate of 166.7, which included a crisp boundary. This attacking approach disrupted Duffy's rhythm and provided momentum to Sri Lanka's chase at a critical juncture. Meanwhile, Mendis showed patience against Michael Bracewell, adding 11 runs off 21 balls. Despite a dot-ball percentage of 47.6, Mendis’ steady approach ensured that Bracewell could not make inroads into Sri Lanka’s batting lineup.

Mitchell Santner’s left-arm spin presented the toughest challenge for Mendis, as he managed only 8 runs off 25 balls with a staggering dot-ball percentage of 80. However, Mendis weathered the storm and avoided risky shots, keeping Sri Lanka in the hunt. His determination to see off Santner’s spell without losing his wicket was a testament to his maturity and game awareness. Similarly, against Nathan Smith, Mendis remained cautious, scoring 4 runs off 5 balls, ensuring the target stayed within reach without taking unnecessary risks.

The defining moment of the innings came in his partnership with Maheesh Theekshana, who provided valuable support during the tense final phase of the chase. Together, they stitched a crucial 47-run stand that carried Sri Lanka over the line. Mendis’ ability to shift gears when needed and manage the chase under immense pressure exemplified his class and temperament. The victory not only secured the series for Sri Lanka but also highlighted Kusal Mendis' status as one of their most reliable and composed batters in crucial situations.

See Also: Tilak Varma's consecutive centuries secure series victory for India against South Africa (3-1)

In a shocking turn of events, New Zealand pace bowling all-rounder Doug Bracewell confessed to the usage of cocaine and subsequently tested positive for the illicit substance following the conclusion of the NZ Super Smash game between Central Districts and Wellington in January 2024. Playing for Central Districts, Bracewell hogged the limelight with his all-round heroics in that game hammering 30 (11) with the bat and claiming figures of 2-21. 

As a result, the authorities made the decision to impose a three-month ban which was expected to be in effect till April 2024. However, a condition was placed which would truncate his suspension down to one month if he agreed to opt for a rehab program.

How did the higher authorities react to this news? 

As per a statement issued by the Sport Integrity Commission, Bracewell had reportedly consumed the substance whilst he was away from the competition which makes it clear that the Kiwi speedster was not using it as a means to enhance his performance on the field. 

However, Sports Integrity Commission chief executive Rebecca Wells highlighted the grave danger the drug possesses and how it can negatively hinder the performance of athletes across all levels of cricket. 

“It’s not always known what’s in these substances or their strength, which makes them unpredictable and dangerous. Their use is a serious issue at all levels of sport and recreation, and we want to work with both sports organizations and athletes to tackle this problem,"

Moreover, New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink also commented that Bracewell had undergone a one-month penalty and is well aware of the consequences of his action. Nevertheless, he remains committed to fully supporting him and driving him on the road to complete recovery. 

“Doug accepts full responsibility for his error of judgment; the consequences of his behavior, and the penalty imposed. As an organization, we will continue to provide support for Doug – who is fully aware of our expectations moving forward,"

Bracewell’s last appearance for New Zealand

Bracewell last played featured for New Zealand in the ODI format back in 2022 whereas his last test appearance came in a home Test series against Sri Lanka in 2023. Moreover, Bracwell has also been absent from the domestic circuit for a while since the start of the year but after completing a one-month suspension period, Bracwell could soon be cleared to partake in all levels of the game.

See also: Tim Southee all set to retire from Tests after England series

In an unexpected turn of events, India's dominance at home was shattered when New Zealand achieved an extraordinary 3-0 whitewash, marking India's first-ever clean sweep loss in a home Test series. Known for their remarkable resilience on home turf, India struggled collectively, with both the batting and bowling departments failing to deliver against a sharp, determined New Zealand side. Despite being favorites, India faltered, and the series quickly spiraled into a historic victory for New Zealand—their greatest in Asia. This outcome spotlighted vulnerabilities in India’s lineup, with top-order batters repeatedly succumbing to pressure, and the entire squad failing to respond as a cohesive unit to New Zealand’s calculated approach.

As the series progressed, the Indian team seemed to grapple with growing internal and external pressure. After losing the first two Tests, India’s strategy took a controversial turn, altering pitches to be more spin-friendly in hopes of regaining control. However, the plan backfired, as New Zealand’s disciplined approach outclassed India's attempts to manipulate the conditions. Critics pointed to the lack of defensive techniques among India's top order, suggesting that a focus on grinding out long innings could have helped India endure New Zealand's persistent bowling attack. In the end, the series left India reeling and raised critical questions about preparation and adaptability in high-stakes home series.

See Also: IPL 2025 Retention: Can Ravindra Jadeja Live Up to His ₹18 Crore Retention Fee?

More Dependent on Rishabh Pant , Jasiwal , Gill

In India’s recent run of matches, a glaring pattern has emerged: the team’s batting heavily relies on the contributions of a few young stars. Players like Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill have shouldered the majority of the scoring responsibility, with Pant leading the charts with 422 runs across 10 innings, averaging an impressive 46.89 at a strike rate of 86.48. Jaiswal and Gill follow with 379 and 308 runs, respectively, but there’s a steep drop in contributions after them. This over-dependence on the top three has exposed India's middle order, revealing a lack of depth and experience in consistently supporting the team’s innings.

The stark difference between the top three run-scorers and the rest highlights a potential over-reliance on these players, putting immense pressure on them to perform in every game. With senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli failing to contribute significantly, the burden has fallen on the relatively younger batters. Rohit’s return of just 133 runs from 10 innings at an average of 13.3, and Virat’s 192 runs at 21.33, raise questions about their form and ability to anchor the innings under pressure. Their struggle to convert starts into impactful scores has placed the team in precarious situations, often leading to collapses when the top three fail to fire.

Additionally, the middle and lower order has offered only sporadic support, with players like Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and KL Rahul failing to provide the consistency needed to stabilize or accelerate the innings. Although Jadeja has managed 199 runs, his average of 24.88 suggests he’s been unable to stay at the crease long enough to make a substantial impact. Ashwin and Rahul, too, have shown glimpses of form but lack the kind of sustained output needed to back up the top order effectively. The absence of dependable innings from the middle order has only magnified the failures of senior players and placed undue strain on Pant, Jaiswal, and Gill.

The pressure on the top three has been particularly evident in recent matches where challenging bowling attacks have quickly dismantled India’s lineup once they broke through the initial partnership. This imbalance has made the team vulnerable, especially in Test matches where patience and adaptability are key. While the younger players have shown resilience and flair, India’s over-dependence on them could lead to burnout, and without the support of experienced players

like Kohli and Sharma, the team’s prospects remain uncertain. If these senior players can’t bounce back, it could impact the team’s morale and performance in crucial upcoming series.

In light of these struggles, it’s crucial for India to reassess their batting strategies. The team needs to develop a plan that enables seniors like Rohit and Virat to regain their form while allowing the middle order to step up when needed. Without a cohesive batting unit, India’s success will remain fragile, overly reliant on the top three, and at risk of collapse in high-stakes matches. Strengthening the collective resilience of the lineup could be India’s best chance at bouncing back, preventing further historic losses, and re-establishing their dominance at home.

See Also: Should SRH Retain Klaasen for ₹23 Crore? A Worthy Investment?

Rohit Sharma had an impressive run in Test cricket in 2023, showcasing his consistency and adaptability against top teams. Starting with Australia, he displayed grit by accumulating 300 runs across 8 innings, averaging 37.5, including a century and 35 boundaries. His most striking feature was his patience, as shown by a dot-ball percentage of 70.5%, indicating his disciplined approach. Against West Indies, he further solidified his form, notching up an average of 80 across 3 innings, with 2 fifties and a century, maintaining a steady strike rate around 58.8. However, South Africa proved to be a challenging series for Rohit, where he struggled to make a significant impact, managing only 5 runs over 2 innings, dropping his yearly average slightly.

Kicking off 2024, Rohit found himself in stellar form against England, where he amassed an impressive 400 runs, featuring 2 centuries and a fifty. His performance in that series suggested his dominance would continue throughout the year. However, after the England series, Rohit's form took a dip as he struggled to reach the three-figure mark in subsequent games. While his early success positioned him as a key contributor, the sudden decline highlighted the challenges of maintaining consistency at the highest level.

See Also: Sydney Sixers Edge Past Melbourne Renegades with Ellyse Perry's Match-Winning Knock

Analysis of 2024 test match played by Rohit Sharma

In 2024, Rohit Sharma’s Test cricket journey has been a mixed one, filled with both highs and challenges as he adapts to different playing styles against varied bowling attacks. Kicking off the year on a high note against England, Rohit adopted a bold, attacking approach that paid off well. Over nine innings, he amassed 400 runs with an average of 44.4, featuring two centuries and a fifty. His highest score of 131 displayed his ability to take control, punishing the English bowlers with boundaries and well-timed sixes. His strike rate of 64.2 underscored his aggressive intent, which ultimately proved effective, positioning him as a key contributor in India’s lineup.

However, after his success against England, Rohit’s fortunes turned during the Bangladesh series. Determined to maintain an aggressive strategy, he attempted to dominate the Bangladeshi bowlers, but this time, it backfired. In four innings, Rohit managed only 42 runs at a low average of 10.5. While his strike rate of 95.5 reflected his intent, he couldn’t convert starts into significant scores. His quick dismissals suggested an overcommitment to high-risk shots, which left him struggling to find rhythm. This series served as a reminder of the challenges of consistently playing with aggression, especially in different conditions.

Next up was New Zealand, where Rohit altered his approach yet again. Aware of the Kiwi bowlers’ ability to exploit challenging conditions, he took a more cautious stance. Yet, despite this adjustment, his performance was underwhelming. Across four innings, he scored just 62 runs, with an average of 15.5. His highest score, a half-century of 52, showed glimpses of adaptability, but he couldn’t find the consistency he sought. With a lower strike rate of 59.6, Rohit aimed to build his innings patiently, yet New Zealand’s disciplined attack hindered his success. This series highlighted the difficulties in adapting quickly enough to different bowling conditions.

The series against South Africa saw yet another shift. Playing two innings, Rohit scored 56 runs with a notable average of 56. His measured strike rate of 77.8 and a high dot-ball percentage of 68.1 reflected a careful, strategic approach, emphasizing stability and valuing his wicket. While his scores weren’t groundbreaking, Rohit’s composure and restraint showed a maturing mindset, a contrast to his earlier aggressive stances. This adaptation illustrated his ability to anchor an innings and highlighted his evolving strategies to find balance between patience and aggression.

Looking ahead, Rohit still has a crucial opportunity to solidify his form in the upcoming third Test against New Zealand. A strong performance here could allow him to overcome the inconsistencies of recent series and establish himself once again as India’s reliable opener. This match offers him the chance to reset, showcase his adaptability, and, most importantly, prove that his form remains intact despite the challenges faced earlier in the year.

See Also:  How Did Sri Lanka Dominate the West Indies in Their Recent ODI Series?

New Zealand Women clinched their first-ever ICC Women's T20 World Cup title in 2024, overcoming South Africa in a thrilling final held in Dubai. This victory was a historic moment for New Zealand, who had previously made it to the finals in 2009 and 2010, but it took them 14 years to reach this stage again. Their campaign was marked by grit, resilience, and standout performances, particularly in the bowling department. Amelia Kerr played a pivotal role in leading the bowling attack, delivering a brilliant spell that saw her take 3 key wickets, while also contributing significantly with the bat. Her all-round performance was crucial in driving New Zealand to this memorable triumph on the global stage.

Kerr's performance in the Women's T20 World Cup exemplified her all-rounder capabilities. Across the tournament, she bowled a total of 22.4 overs, giving away just 110 runs at an impressive economy rate of 4.85. Her consistency shone through, claiming 15 wickets at an average of 7.3 and a strike rate of 9.1. Her best bowling figures of 4/26 were a testament to her match-winning abilities, and she finished the tournament with an economy rate of 47.1%. In the final, her 40-odd runs and critical wickets were instrumental in securing New Zealand's long-awaited World Cup victory, earning her a place among the top performers of the tournament.

See Also:  Is Smriti Mandhana falling short of expectations?

Breaking Down Amelia Kerr’s Match-Winning Performances Against Every Team in the Women's T20 World Cup

Amelia Kerr was the cornerstone of New Zealand’s historic triumph in the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, delivering key performances with the ball throughout the tournament. Her ability to consistently take crucial wickets across different matches was instrumental in her team's journey to the championship. Against top-tier teams like Australia, India, and South Africa, Kerr’s control and variations turned the tide in New Zealand’s favor, making her a standout performer in each encounter.

In the match against Australia Women, Kerr delivered a match-winning spell, taking 4 wickets for 26 runs in her 4 overs, boasting an impressive economy rate of 6.5. Her ability to break partnerships and control the run flow was crucial, particularly with her best bowling figures of 4/26. In this game, she forced the Australian batters to struggle, maintaining a strike rate of 6 and contributing with dot balls that frustrated their rhythm, helping New Zealand maintain dominance.

Her performance against India Women also showcased her versatility. Though she took just 1 wicket, her control over the economy, giving away only 19 runs in 4 overs at a rate of 4.75, ensured that India’s aggressive batters were kept in check. Her spell played a significant role in maintaining pressure, while her 45.8% dot ball percentage helped build tight spells that restricted India’s scoring opportunities. Despite not claiming many wickets, Kerr’s disciplined bowling made it difficult for India to accelerate.

When facing Pakistan Women, Kerr unleashed a more aggressive side, taking 3 wickets for just 14 runs in 2.4 overs. Her average of 4.7 and strike rate of 5.3 highlight how quickly she dismantled Pakistan’s batting lineup, contributing to another dominant New Zealand victory. Her best bowling figures of 3/14 in this match reflected her ability to adapt and provide breakthroughs at the right moments, ensuring New Zealand had the upper hand.

Kerr’s impact was equally important against South Africa Women, where she claimed 3 wickets while conceding 24 runs. Despite a slightly higher economy rate of 6, she maintained a solid average of 8 and a strike rate of 8, reflecting her knack for delivering key breakthroughs at crucial junctures. Her consistent ability to disrupt the South African middle order, coupled with 37.5% dot balls, ensured New Zealand controlled the flow of the game and put South Africa on the back foot.

Overall, Kerr’s contributions throughout the tournament against various teams like Sri Lanka Women and West Indies Women further demonstrated her brilliance. With a spell of 2/13 against Sri Lanka, where she maintained an exceptional economy of 3.25, and a key performance of 2/14 against West Indies, Kerr consistently found ways to contribute to New Zealand’s success. Across all these performances, her ability to lead from the front and adapt her bowling to suit different conditions and opponents made her one of the most valuable players in New Zealand’s historic World Cup win.

See Also: What led to India Women's early exit in the T20 world cup 2024?

The New Zealand Pacer, Ben Sears has been ruled out of the India test series due to a knee injury. Pacer Jacob Duffy, who is uncapped in Tests has been named as Sears' replacement and will fly to India on Wednesday morning.

Ben Sears experienced pain in his left knee while training during the recent Test series in Sri Lanka and underwent scans in New Zealand last week. According to a New Zealand Cricket Statement, "His departure to India was delayed after scans revealed a tear to his meniscus and the first available medical consultation was sought in the hope that he might have been cleared."

See Also:- “It’s something different about playing a Test match" - Rachin Ravindra

However, following the medical advice, the decision was made to rule him out of the series. A plan on the best course of treatment and rehabilitation for the injury will be advised in due course.

Jacob Duffy who is Otago's leading wicket-taker has featured in 6 ODIs and 14 T20Is for New Zealand. He currently has 299 first-class wickets to his name.

Head Coach Gary Stead on Ben Sears

“We’re obviously disappointed for Ben who made a strong start to his Test career during the home summer and offers a genuine pace option,” said Stead. “It remains to be seen how long we’ll be without him for, but we’re hopeful his road to a full recovery will be a short one."

See Also:- Rohit Sharma gives big update on Shami's fitness

Gary Stead on Jacob Duffy said, "It’s an exciting opportunity for Jacob who has been around Test the squad before. With three Tests ahead of us he has every chance of making his Test debut. Jacob's recent experience playing for Nottinghamshire in the County Championship certainly pushed his place. His performances in white-ball cricket for the BLACKCAPS have always been impressive and we’re confident he'll be able to contribute if called upon.”

Rain Threat Over Bangalore Test

New Zealand will begin their India Tour with the first test being played at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru starting on 16 October. But the weather threatens the rain playing spoilsport during the first test. As the whole week's weather forecast isn't looking good. India's morning training session was washed out. New Zealand completed their training session in the indoor facility of Chinnaswamy premises. The second test will be played in Pune from 24 October and the Final test in Mumbai starting on 1 November on the eve of Diwali.

Prabath Jayasuriya’s performance in the two-Test series against New Zealand was nothing short of remarkable. Across four innings, he bowled a total of 122.4 overs, claiming 18 wickets at an impressive average of 21.39. His economy rate of 3.14 suggests that he maintained tight control throughout, making it difficult for the New Zealand batters to score freely. His best bowling figures of 6/42 underscore his match-winning abilities, while he recorded two five-wicket hauls, further highlighting his dominance over the Kiwi lineup. Jayasuriya’s sharp turn and accuracy, combined with subtle variations, kept the New Zealand batters on edge, forcing them into frequent errors.

Throughout the series, Jayasuriya's ability to build pressure was evident, as he bowled a significant 517 dot balls. He effectively neutralized the scoring threats, conceding just 29 boundaries and 10 sixes, often trapping the batters with clever field placements and spinning deliveries. His strike rate of 40.89 indicates that he consistently broke through the batting order at regular intervals, ensuring that New Zealand could not establish any long-lasting partnerships. Jayasuriya’s performance was the cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, as he exposed the weaknesses of the New Zealand batters in facing quality spin bowling, making him the standout performer of the series.

See Also: Ravindra Jadeja's 300+ wickets in test career analysis

Prabath Jayasuriya's Mastery Over New Zealand’s Batting Lineup: A Detailed Breakdown

The New Zealand batters found themselves in a battle against Prabath Jayasuriya's spin throughout the two-Test series, as his clever use of angles, flight, and turn created consistent problems for the visitors. One of his key achievements was removing major players from the Kiwi lineup, each of whom struggled to handle his deceptive spin. Ajaz Patel, who faced Jayasuriya for eight overs, managed to score only 22 runs before falling victim to his sharp bowling. Patel’s strike rate was restricted to 48.0, and his dismissal reflected Jayasuriya's ability to get through the lower order quickly. Similarly, Devon Conway, a top-order threat for New Zealand, managed to survive for only 6.4 overs against the spinner before being dismissed. With an economy of 4.50, Conway's attacking instincts were visible, but Jayasuriya trapped him, allowing just 30 runs before the breakthrough.

All-rounder Daryl Mitchell, who is known for his resilience, fared better than some of his teammates but still struggled to counter Jayasuriya's variations. Over 11.3 overs, Mitchell scored 38 runs, and despite a reasonable economy rate of 3.30, Jayasuriya’s mastery over him was evident in the two crucial wickets he claimed, forcing the Kiwi all-rounder into errors with pressure-building tactics. Glenn Phillips also encountered similar issues, scoring 47 runs over 11.5 overs, but his aggressive attempts were curtailed by Jayasuriya’s smart field placements and turn. Phillips fell twice to Jayasuriya, with an economy rate of 3.97, showing how the spinner kept him in check while getting through his defenses.

New Zealand’s star batsman Kane Williamson, who is often the backbone of their lineup, faced the most overs against Jayasuriya (22.5) but couldn’t escape his spin web. Williamson scored 66 runs at a cautious rate, maintaining an economy of 2.89. Jayasuriya’s ability to hold Williamson at bay with accurate lines and lengths was vital in destabilizing the Kiwi innings, as he eventually claimed the prized wicket twice. Even the solid Tom Latham, in just two innings, managed 39 runs at an economy of 3.84, but Jayasuriya’s persistence wore him down, dismissing him once at a key moment.

Jayasuriya’s impact extended beyond the top-order batters, as he also made inroads against the lower middle order and tail-enders. Mitchell Santner, a dangerous player down the order, faced 11 overs, scoring only 34 runs before being removed by Jayasuriya, who bowled with an impressive economy of 3.09. Rachin Ravindra, who had been in good form coming into the series, could only manage 46 runs in 15.5 overs before Jayasuriya snared his wicket with his ability to maintain tight lines and frustrate the batter. His economy of 2.91 showed how hard Ravindra had to work for his runs, and Jayasuriya’s relentless pressure was the key to his dismissal.

The Sri Lankan spinner was particularly effective against the tail-enders. Tim Southee, New Zealand’s captain and lower-order hitter, was rendered ineffective by Jayasuriya’s guile. Southee was dismissed three times in just 4.1 overs, managing only 15 runs with an astonishingly low average of 5.0 and a strike rate of 8.3. Jayasuriya’s ability to remove Southee quickly, along with his dismissal of players like Will O’Rourke and Tom Blundell (who did manage 46 runs but fell three times), ensured that New Zealand’s lower order offered little resistance. Jayasuriya’s control and effectiveness were underscored by his high dot ball percentage, with players like O’Rourke facing 92.9% dot balls and being removed cheaply.

See Also: Can India overcome early new ball struggles in the second test?

The ninth edition of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup will kickstart on the 3rd of October on the grounds of the UAE. New Zealand, a.k.a. The Black Ferns, have recently released their playing arsenal for the vast tournament. Sophie Devine, the experienced Black Ferns player, was chosen to lead the squad for the ninth women's T20 World Cup, making this her last outing as a captain in this tournament setup.

Being a two-time runner-up of the tournament, the team is eager to take up their robust opponents from the tournament's Group A and would look to clinch their first-ever Women's T20 WC title. Here's a list of the top three players to check out from the Kiwi squad. 

Announced Women's New Zealand 2024 T20 World Cup Full Squad: 

Sophie Devine (Captain), Suzie Bates, Eden Carson, Izzy Gaze, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Fran Jonas, Leigh Kasperek, Amelia Kerr, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu.

New Zealand's Probable XI:

1. Georgie Plimmer
2. Suzie Bates
3. Amelia Kerr
4. Sophie Devine (Captain)
5. Brooke Halliday 
6. Izzy Gaze (Wicketkeeper)
7. Maddy Green
8. Lee Tahuhu
9. Eden Carson
10. Fran Jonas
11. Molly Penfold

Also Read: ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024: ICC announces record prize money

Top-3 player to check out from New Zealand in the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup:

Sophie Devine

Sophie Devine will be captaining the Kiwi side for the upcoming 2024 Women's T20 World Cup edition, and this will be her last tournament as a captain. Sophie has progressed from a swashbuckling batter to one of the game's top all-rounders since her debut for New Zealand in 2006. She has achieved success with both bat and ball, dominating in T20Is.

Devine's expertise across formats and strong leadership qualities have earned her a spot on the squad for all nine events. Finally, her talents and expertise will be relevant to the position. Devine has made a colossal 3268 runs and scalped a massive count of 117 wickets in her WT20I career.  

Suzie Bates

Suzie Bates is known as the reliable batter for the Black Ferns' side, and it's not a surprise that she happens to be the highest run scorer across the WT20I format. As it implies, the batter has played a pivotal role in making crucial runs for the squad. As the captain, Bates happens to be the second and only player to be a part of all the nine Women's T20 WC tournaments.

Her batting experience in various daunting conditions has made her an instrumental batter for the upcoming tournament amongst a robust group comprising India, Australia, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. In her T20I stint, she made 4348 runs in a well-known stint of 162 matches, with an average of over 30. Also, she has scored a commendable 28 half-centuries and one century. 

Amelia Kerr

Amelia Kerr deserves to be on the list, thanks to her recent performance records and all-rounding ability. Considering the UAE condition, Kerr will bolster the spinner's attack amid the spin-favourable conditions and deceive the batters with variations. Also, her batting will help cement the strength of the team's middle-order run scorers.

Not to forget, Kerr made her international debut in 2016 and became the youngest player to make a double-century in international cricket at the age of seventeen. Overall, Kerr's versatility makes her a valuable asset to the team. In her all-rounding T20I stint, she has made a crucial 1108 runs and scalped a humongous 73 wickets in just 76 matches.

Afghanistan is reportedly set to host a one-off Test against New Zealand in September, marking the first-ever Test match between the two nations.

Since being awarded Test status in 2017, Afghanistan has played nine Tests but has yet to face New Zealand. This historic moment is likely to occur in September when the two teams meet in the longest format of the game.

According to the Times of India, the match is scheduled to be held at the Shahid Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida. The report highlighted that New Zealand’s stance on playing bilateral series against Afghanistan differs from that of their neighbors, Australia.

Since 2021, Australia has refused to play any bilateral matches against Afghanistan due to the Taliban’s restrictions on female participation in sports. However, New Zealand has expressed no such reservations about playing against Afghanistan.

BCCI approves Afghanistan’s request

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has received approval from the BCCI to play its home games in India once again. This means Afghanistan will be playing their home matches in India after a four-year hiatus, returning to Greater Noida for the first time since 2020. The BCCI has allotted three ‘home’ venues to Afghanistan: Greater Noida, Kanpur, and Lucknow.

“Soon after the change in Kabul in 2021, when the Taliban took over, the BCCI was the first cricket board to support Afghanistan,” a source said.

Afghanistan was also scheduled to host Bangladesh in Greater Noida for a full-fledged series, including two Tests and white-ball games, in July. However, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) decided to postpone the series due to weather conditions in North India.

SEE ALSO:Watch: Ravichandran Ashwin’s favorite moment from India’s T20 World Cup win ‘He hugged the cup and cried’

For New Zealand, the one-off Test against Afghanistan will provide an ideal opportunity to prepare for their three-match Test series against India, scheduled for October-November.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan will be aiming for a historic win against New Zealand in the Test. The Afghan team recently shocked the Black Caps with a victory in the T20 World Cup last month and will be looking to surprise them once again.

Group C of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with a diverse mix of cricketing talent from around the globe set to clash on the field. Group C of the T20 World Cup features an intriguing three-team battle between New Zealand, West Indies, and Afghanistan for the top two spots. Additionally, the presence of Papua New Guinea and Uganda adds the potential for upsets. Each of the top three teams in this group has distinct strengths: New Zealand is a balanced squad, Afghanistan relies more on its bowlers, and West Indies has opted for a batting-heavy side.

Group C Preview

1. West Indies

Led by Rovman Powell, the West Indies team enters the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with high hopes and a formidable lineup. Despite a lackluster performance in the previous edition, the Caribbean side boasts a balanced squad with several all-rounders and big hitters capable of turning the game on its head.

See Also: T20 World Cup 2024, Match 1: USA beat Canada by 7 wickets

Key Players

Rovman Powell

The all-rounder has been in excellent form since taking over captaincy duties in February 2023. The right-hander has enjoyed a promotion up to five in the order and averages close to 40 with a strike rate of 170 since the last World Cup. Powell has a strong preference for facing pace bowling through the death overs, where his strike rate jumps to 197.

Akeal Hosein

Left-arm spinner Hosein has quickly developed into a key part of the West Indies bowling attack. He is a powerplay specialist and has bowled 52% of his overs in this phase since the last World Cup, operating at a quicker and flatter trajectory than most spinners, with 65% of his deliveries above 56 mph. Right-hand batters find Hosein particularly tough to get away; he concedes under eight runs per over against his preferred match-up.

Fixtures

Sun, 2 June 2024 – West Indies v Papua New Guinea, Guyana, 10:30 AM LOCAL
Sat, 8 June 2024 – West Indies v Uganda, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Wed, 12 June 2024 – West Indies v New Zealand, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – West Indies v Afghanistan, St. Lucia, 08:30 PM LOCAL

West Indies: Rovman Powell (c), Alzarri Joseph, Johnson Charles, Roston Chase, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd

2. New Zealand

New Zealand approaches the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with a consistent squad, highlighting their stability and well-roundedness. Led by the seasoned Kane Williamson, the Blackcaps boast a wealth of experience alongside promising young talents like Rachin Ravindra and Finn Allen. With a strong emphasis on team balance, New Zealand features a formidable pace attack led by Trent Boult and Tim Southee, complemented by spin options like Mitchell Santner and Ish Sodhi.

Key Players

Finn Allen

The right-hander’s boundary-hitting ability in the first half of the innings is phenomenal and will be key in providing the platform to build big totals. His powerplay strike rate of 149 in this World Cup cycle is among the highest of any player in T20 history. He will need to combine his raw power with maturity to turn those cameos into meaningful totals.

Mitch Santner

Left-arm spinner Santner has a phenomenal record in the Caribbean, averaging under 17 with the ball at an economy of 5.5. In no other geographical area in the world does he have a better bowling record? His ability to subtly change his speed, flight, and trajectory will make him tricky to face on potentially helpful tracks. With the hit-and-miss Ish Sodhi providing the high-variance leg-spin for the Kiwis, Santner has to offer reliability and a wicket-taking threat.

Fixtures

Fri, 7 June 2024 – New Zealand v Afghanistan, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Wed, 12 June 2024 – New Zealand v West Indies, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Fri, 14 June 2024 – New Zealand v Uganda, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – New Zealand v Papua New Guinea, Trinidad, 10:30 AM LOCAL

New Zealand: Kane Williamson (c), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee. Travelling Reserve: Ben Sears

3. Afghanistan

Led by the dynamic Rashid Khan, the team boasts a formidable spin attack featuring the likes of Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Mohammad Nabi. Afghanistan’s recent series victories against Pakistan and Ireland showcase their growing prowess in the shortest format of the game.

Key Players

Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Dynamic opening batter Gurbaz has been plying his trade in various franchise leagues across the globe, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), Major League Cricket (MLC), and ILT20. In the powerplay, he will look to take on seam bowlers down the ground and pounce on any bowlers who overpitch. Since the end of the last World Cup, Gurbaz has more than doubled the number of runs than any other Afghanistan batter (1,504) and achieved this at a strike rate of 143.

Rashid Khan

Widely regarded as the best T20 bowler operating today, Rashid’s skills are in high demand across T20 franchise leagues globally. His brand of fast and direct mystery spin has been puzzling batters over his nine-year international career. Across this World Cup cycle, his wickets have come at an average of just below 20 and at a miserly economy rate of under seven. No bowler has taken more T20 wickets this decade than him.

Fixtures

Mon, 3 June 2024 – Afghanistan v Uganda, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Fri, 7 June 2024 – Afghanistan v New Zealand, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Thur, 13 June 2024 – Afghanistan v Papua New Guinea, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – Afghanistan v West Indies, St. Lucia, 08:30 PM LOCAL

Afghanistan: Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Nangyal Kharoti, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik. Reserves: Sediq Atal, Hazratullah Zazai, Saleem Safi

4. Uganda

Uganda’s journey to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 has been nothing short of impressive. Coming off a stellar performance in the Africa region qualifier, where they secured their spot with convincing wins, Uganda enters the tournament with confidence and determination. Led by Brian Masaba, the team brings a blend of experience and emerging talent to the global stage.

Key Players

Simon Ssesazi

Consistent left-hander Ssesazi is his country’s leading run-scorer in T20 internationals and has been the leading run-scorer across all nations in this World Cup cycle. His strike rate has been above 130 against both pace and spin in this time, and his average of 43 against seamers provides great stability at the top of the order.

Alpesh Ramjani

Mumbai-born left-arm spinner Ramjani has taken 70 wickets from his 39 T20Is at an average of just 8.88. He is an all-phase bowler and brings consistency throughout, but through the middle overs, he has taken 33 wickets and concedes just 4.37 runs per over.

Fixtures

Mon, 3 June 2024 – Uganda v Afghanistan, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Wed, 5 June 2024 – Uganda v Papua New Guinea, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Sat, 8 June 2024 – Uganda v West Indies, Guyana, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Fri, 14 June 2024 – Uganda v New Zealand, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL

Uganda: Brian Masaba (c), Simon Ssesazi, Roger Mukasa, Cosmas Kyewuta, Dinesh Nakrani, Fred Achelam, Kenneth Waiswa, Alpesh Ramjani, Frank Nsubuga, Henry Ssenyondo, Bilal Hassun, Robinson Obuya, Riazat Ali Shah, Juma Miyaji, Ronak Patel. Travelling Reserves: Innocent Mwebaze, Ronald Lutaaya

5. Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) arrives at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with a sense of excitement and ambition. Led by Assadollah Vala, PNG brings a blend of talent and enthusiasm to the tournament. Their unbeaten record in the qualifiers, winning six consecutive matches, underscores their potential as a competitive force on the global stage.

Key Players

Tony Ura

Right-hander Ura is the backbone of the Papua New Guinea team. Opening the batting, Ura has been the leading run-scorer since the last World Cup, and he is the best run-scorer for his country overall in this format. His runs also come quickly – his strike rate of 151 in this cycle is the highest of any PNG batter to face more than 50 balls. He strikes at over 150 against both pace and spin and loves a flying start, striking at 166 in the powerplay. He’s the only PNG batter to have a century in international T20s.

Charles Amini

The leg-spinner has a crucial role as the main spinner in a side that has generally been very pace-heavy. Since the last World Cup, Amini has bowled comfortably more than half of the spin deliveries sent down by PNG, taking 18 wickets. On Caribbean surfaces, his performance will be significant to his side.

Fixtures

Sun, 2 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v West Indies, Guyana, 10:30 AM LOCAL
Wed, 5 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v Uganda, Guyana, 07:30 PM LOCAL
Thur, 13 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v Afghanistan, Trinidad, 08:30 PM LOCAL
Mon, 17 June 2024 – Papua New Guinea v New Zealand, Trinidad, 10:30 AM LOCAL

Papua New Guinea: Assadollah Vala (c), Alei Nao, Chad Soper, CJ Amini, Hila Vare, Hiri Hiri, Jack Gardner, John Kariko, Kabua Vagi Morea, Kipling Doriga, Lega Siaka, Norman Vanua, Sema Kamea, Sese Bau, Tony Ura

Group C Prediction: Top Two Teams

Given their experience and squad strength, New Zealand and the West Indies are the favorites to advance from Group C. Afghanistan has the potential to upset the established order, while Uganda and PNG can spring surprises if they play to their strengths.

The Caribbean conditions, known for their slower pitches, will favor spinners and all-rounders. Teams with strong spin attacks and adaptable batting lineups will have an advantage.

Each team in Group C must capitalize on their strengths and adapt to the conditions to advance. Consistency and strategic play will be key to securing a spot in the Super Eight. From the batting powerhouses of the West Indies to the spin prowess of Afghanistan, the competition promises to be fierce. As the tournament unfolds, cricket fans worldwide will be treated to a spectacular display of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship.