New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner has shared his thoughts on the squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, set to commence on February 19, 2025, in Pakistan. The Blackcaps will begin their campaign in Karachi against the host nation.
Santner Confident About Squad Balance
Speaking about the team’s composition, Santner highlighted the versatility and depth in the squad:
“If there is a little bit of turn, we can have Bracewell bat at No. 7, and I can go at No. 8. We have options, which is great for our squad. We’ve got raw pace, we’ve got the spin, and the all-rounders as well.”
Santner also praised the spinners, particularly Michael Bracewell and Glenn Phillips:
“They’re both very good off spinners in their own right. They’re both different, I think. On a wicket like that, Bracewell can get a bit more bounce – a little more over the top. Even the three overs that Glenn bowled were good for us, and he’s worked a lot on his bowling, as we’ve seen in the longer format.”
Strategy and Flexibility in Selection
Santner emphasized the importance of consistency in team selection, while keeping an eye on varying conditions:
“We like to stick to the same team once we’ve picked it, but that’s conditions-dependent. Karachi could play a lot different to Rawalpindi, which could play differently to Dubai. With the short nature of the tournament, if you’re happy with your XI, you want them to perform for all three games. But we’re open to changes.”
New Leadership and Emerging Talent
This marks the first major ICC tournament for Santner as captain, following his successful leadership in New Zealand’s ODI and T20I series victories over Sri Lanka (both 2-1). The squad features fresh faces like the pace trio Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, and Nathan Smith, who will make their ICC event debut.
Key Players and Squad Experience
Senior players Kane Williamson and Tom Latham bring valuable experience, while Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry will lead the pace attack. Ferguson, a veteran of five ICC events, will play a crucial role, with Jacob Duffy named as a reserve player.
New Zealand’s Group Stage Fixtures
- February 19: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Karachi.
- February 24: Bangladesh vs New Zealand, Rawalpindi.
- March 2: India vs New Zealand, Dubai.
Full New Zealand Squad
- Captain: Mitchell Santner
- All-rounders: Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra
- Bowlers: Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith
- Batters: Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Will Young
- Wicketkeeper: Tom Latham
- Reserves: Jacob Duffy
With a blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, the Blackcaps aim to make a strong impact and secure their first ICC Champions Trophy title.