Table-toppers New Zealand have touched down in Chennai for their third match of the ICC World Cup 2023, bringing with them an impressive track record. The Black Caps opened their tournament campaign with a comprehensive victory over reigning champions England, which they followed up with another dominant performance against the Netherlands.
What adds to their confidence is their recent ODI series victory against Bangladesh at home. The return of Kane Williamson and Tim Southee further strengthens their side. Rachin Ravindra’s performance on a potentially tricky Chennai surface would be worth watching. Mitchell Santner, who has prior experience of playing in Chennai, is likely to play a pivotal role for the Black Caps.
Expect Ish Sodhi to be in the playing XI due to the nature of the pitch. New Zealand will also look towards Trent Boult for early wickets, even though he hasn’t been at his best with the new ball in this tournament. Meanwhile, Matt Henry has been the standout in the pace bowling department.
On the other Bangladesh is coming off a challenging 137-run loss against England. The Shakib Al Hasan-led team, however, should relish the conditions in Chennai. Shakib’s guile and experience make him the key bowler for Bangladesh. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mahedi Hasan could also prove to be handful. Bangladesh’s batting unit has faced challenges. While Shakib remains crucial, they will look towards Najmul Hossain Shanto, Litton Das, and Mushfiqur Rahim to deliver. Young opener Tanzid Hasan may be feeling the pressure after two quiet games.
Time and Venue Details
October 13 from 14:00 IST. MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Expected conditions
The weather forecast predicts clear skies. Traditionally, the pitch tends to be slow, favoring spin bowling. Fast bowlers may find some uneven bounce. The batters will need to exhibit solid technique and patience to perform well on this track. If dew arrives, as it did in the India versus Australia match, batting second would be a prudent choice at this venue.
Probable XIs
New Zealand: Anticipate a couple of alterations, with Williamson’s return and Sodhi’s inclusion, considering the pitch conditions. Will Young and Lockie Ferguson may step aside for them.
Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson (c), Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Trent Boult.
Bangladesh: With Chennai’s conditions in mind, Bangladesh might consider bringing in Nasum Ahmed, a left-arm spinner, in lieu of Mustafizur Rahman.
Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Towhid Hridoy, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nasum Ahmed.
Match-ups
Matt Henry vs Tanzid Hasan:
Henry has been exceptional with the new ball during the first powerplay, particularly against the left-handed batters. In the first two games, he dismissed Dawid Malan (England) and Vikramjit Singh (Netherlands). He can seam the ball and make it move in both directions. He will be eager to unsettle young Tanzid early in the innings.
Mahedi Hasan vs New Zealand’s left-handers:
New Zealand’s batters have displayed proficiency against spinners, but a more significant challenge awaits them in Chennai. Mahedi will lead the charge to test the in-form left-handed batters, including Conway, Ravindra, and Latham. He is a clever operator who effectively varies his line, length, and pace according to the nature of the pitch. His versatility could pose a significant threat to the left-handers.
Captain Speak
It’s been quite a journey but largely a good one that’s had some really good progress. I’ve said a number of times, really excited to be named in the World Cup squad, be sitting here now and really excited at the prospect of tomorrow. A new venue, new opposition, as we know, which always happens in world events. And we’re looking forward to the challenge.
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson