The ODI World Cup 2023 is getting underway, and some teams have established their authority from the start. Team New Zealand, the 2019 World Cup finalists, is one of those teams that came into the tournament with all guns blazing.
With six games played so far in the tournament, the Black Caps have won four and lost two, sitting in third place with eight points. The team is well on its way to reaching the knockout stages of the competition, but despite their excellent form, a spot in the knockout stages of the tournament is not guaranteed for New Zealand. One of the main reasons the Black Caps might struggle to qualify is their upcoming schedule.
New Zealand’s next three matches will be against South Africa, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, and a win in at least two of these games will almost certainly secure them a knockout spot. The match against the current table-toppers Proteas, on the other hand, could be crucial and difficult for New Zealand.
Team New Zealand scope:
Furthermore, the game against Sri Lanka could be a must-win in a specific situation, as despite an injury-plagued campaign, Sri Lanka is still capable of six wins in the group stages. The side’s net run rate, on the other hand, would be a plus for New Zealand fans. The Black Caps have an NRR of 1.232 after six games, which is quite healthy and could come in handy if the situation arises.
Following an all-time classic win over New Zealand in Dharamsala on October 28, Australia will look to regroup and shift their focus to their next assignment. New Zealand will face South Africa in the 32nd World Cup match on Wednesday, November 1 in Pune.
Even if Sri Lanka loses to India and the other two teams win, the match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka could be considered a virtual quarter-final. According to the points table, Australia and New Zealand are tied on points; however, Australia’s relatively easier schedule may allow the Men in Yellow to pull ahead.
So, this was all about Team New Zealand. Also read, Know why Team India is wearing black armbands against ENG.
