New Zealand crushed England side and won the opener match by nine wickets making it a memorable victory at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad, India.
Devon Conway (152*) and Rachin Ravindra (123*) guide the team to an opening win in India! Both on @cricketworldcup debut. Scorecard | https://t.co/aNkBrDiAuv #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/pWrLvtCqPP
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 5, 2023
Kane Williamson is still working his way back from an ACL injury.
Tim Southee still can’t feel the tip of his broken thumb.
Lockie Ferguson has a back problem, although he spent a little time as a sub fielder out there, so it shouldn’t be too bad.
With three HUUUGE players missing, New Zealand have utterly swatted England aside.
Mitchell Santner produced a rare 10-over spell of bowling – England couldn’t hit him for a single boundary, and that hasn’t happened in ODIs since 2018.
Matt Henry produced perhaps the ball of the game in conditions designed to negate him and even a batter of the quality of Jos Buttler couldn’t keep it out.
Devon Conway cruised to his fourth century in 11 innings in 2023, showcasing a strength that very few batters have. He power-hits off side. He can’t be contained.
Rachin Ravindra, 23 years old, became NZ’s youngest World Cup centurion.
Their unbroken partnership – 273 off 211 balls with 30 fours and eight sixes – sees NZ through with nine wickets and 82 balls to spare.
