New Zealand will enter the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as underdogs, primed to lift the title. There is a leadership change and it marks a transition as the baton passes on to Mitchell Santner. The Kiwis squad comprises of a fine mix of old and new faces, retaining the likes of Kane Williamson and Daryll Mitchell. New Zealand will look to avenge their heartbreaking losses in the ODI World Cup semi-final in 2023 and the final in 2019 in CT 2025.
New Zealand squad for ICC Champions Trophy
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young
New Zealand’s strongest playing XI for Champions Trophy
| S. No | Player | Role |
| 1. | Devon Conway | Batter |
| 2. | Will Young | Batter |
| 3. | Rachin Ravindra | Batting all-rounder |
| 4. | Kane Williamson | Batter |
| 5. | Tom Latham | Wicketkeeper-batter |
| 6. | Daryll Mitchell | All-rounder |
| 7. | Glenn Phillips | All-rounder |
| 8. | Mitchell Santner (C) | All-rounder |
| 9. | Lockie Ferguson | Bowler |
| 10. | William O’ Rourke | Bowler |
| 11. | Matt Henry | Bowler |
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Power-packed batting line-up
New Zealand boast of a formidable batting line-up, with Devon Conway and Will Young reuniting as openers for Champions Trophy. Conway is no stranger to delivering on the big stage for the Kiwis, having amassed 1246 runs from 32 ODIS, averaging 44.50. His partner Young has 1480 runs from 37 matches. Old guard Kane Williamson, who will perhaps be playing his last Champions Trophy, is the best number three option, given that he has 6810 runs to his name and is their most experienced star.
New Zealand’s batting depth will go all the way down to number 8, with Tom Latham, Mitchell, Phillips and Santner having the ability to bat and bowl. Since New Zealand will play almost all their games in Pakistan, it will be imperative for the Kiwis to head into CT 2025 with a frontline of spin all-rounders.
No Southee, but Ferguson to spearhead bowling unit
The Kiwis boast of a strong bowling unit which actually has a fine balance between pace and spin. Their fast-bowling battery includes veteran Ferguson & Matt Henry along with young William O’Rourke. In terms of spin, New Zealand have a variety of options ranging from captain Santner to Mitchell. The best part about the Kiwis’ spin department is all of their spinners are all-rounders, who can contribute effectively with both bat and ball. This includes the young Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips.
New Zealand’s Champions Trophy fixtures
- NZ vs PAK – February 19
- NZ vs BAN – February 24
- NZ vs IND – March 2
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