The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup opener between England and New Zealand is set to be a blockbuster encounter, but the match will be missing some key players from both sides.
New Zealand will be without the services of captain Kane Williamson and pace bowler Tim Southee, while England are doubtful about the availability of their star all-rounder, Ben Stokes.
Williamson has been struggling with a left elbow injury since the ODI series against England in June, and he is still not fully recovered. Southee, meanwhile, has a minor calf injury and is also a doubt for the opening match.
England, on the other hand, are sweating over the fitness of Stokes, who has a hip niggle. Stokes is one of the most important players in the England team, and his absence would be a major blow to their title defence.
In the absence of Williamson, Tom Latham is likely to lead New Zealand in the opening match against England. Latham is a capable batsman and wicket-keeper, but he does not have the same experience as Williamson as a captain.
Southee is likely to be replaced by Kyle Jamieson in the New Zealand XI. Jamieson is a young and talented fast bowler, but he does not have the same experience as Southee.
If Stokes is ruled out of the opening match, England are likely to play Moeen Ali in his place. Ali is a versatile all-rounder who can bat, bowl, and field.
The absence of these key players will make the opening match even more interesting. It will be interesting to see how New Zealand and England cope without their star players.
Here is a more detailed look at the key players who are set to miss the World Cup opener for New Zealand:
Kane Williamson
Williamson is one of the best batsmen in the world, and he is also a very good captain. He has led New Zealand to many victories over the years, and he is a key player in the team.
Tim Southee
Southee is one of the most experienced bowlers in the world. He has taken over 300 wickets in ODIs, and he is a very dangerous bowler in all conditions.
Ben Stokes
Stokes is one of the most versatile players in the world. He can bat, bowl, and field at a very high level. He is also a very good captain.
It is a shame that these key players will miss the World Cup opener, but it will be interesting to see how New Zealand and England cope without them.
