Latham predicts high-intensity battle against Pakistan in Champions Trophy
What's the story
New Zealand's wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Latham has said that his team is ready for the Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan. The match is scheduled to be held in Karachi, a venue where the Kiwis have gained a lot of experience in the last three years. "Anytime you've been in conditions you're coming up against is an advantage," Latham stated speaking at a press conference on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Black Caps are coming off an ODI tri-Series finals win against Pakistan.
Injury update
Latham updates on Ravindra's recovery from head injury
Latham also gave an update on all-rounder Rachin Ravindra, who is recovering from a head injury. He confirmed Ravindra will resume training and the team will assess his condition. "Rachin will train tonight, and we'll get a bit more of an indication of how he's going," Latham said. "His recovery's going well, but we need to make sure things are all right since it was a head injury. He's going through the protocols, and we'll wait and see," he added.
Match anticipation
Latham expresses excitement for Champions Trophy opener
Latham was excited about the opening match of the Champions Trophy, particularly because it is against the host nation. He said, "The opening game of the CT is really special, and to be playing against the host nation is going to be a great occasion." The Kiwi wicketkeeper-batsman also said both teams have enough information on each other, and it will be an exciting contest.
Team performance
NZ's recent performance and player contributions
As mentioned, New Zealand are coming into the tournament on the back of a stellar performance in a recent ODI tri-series. Latham lauded his team's ability to deal with pressure and stated, "We were put under pressure in all three games, and we managed to overcome that." He especially praised spinners Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell and stated, "The spinners were fantastic through the middle." However, he confirmed that fast bowler Kyle Jamieson will miss the opener against Pakistan.
Strategy emphasis
Latham emphasizes adaptability and acknowledges Pakistan's strength
Latham stressed on the need to adjust to different pitch conditions in Karachi. He said, "It's about playing our brand to the best of our ability." Noting the history of close matches between New Zealand and Pakistan, he said, "Whenever we come up against Pakistan, there have been great battles and great games." He anticipates the same in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy.
Squad
NZ's squad for the tournament
New Zealand squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy.
OD tri-series
New Zealand tame Pakistan in ODI tri-series final
As mentioned the Kiwis delivered a stellar performance in the tri-series final against Pakistan. The Kiwis restricted their opponents to a total of 242 runs on a challenging Karachi pitch. Will O'Rourke led the seam attack with impressive figures of 4/43, while Santner contributed significantly with his spin bowling. In response, fifties from the blades of Daryl Mitchell and Latham handed New Zealand a solid win. Meanwhile, NZ scored 243/5 in 45.3 overs. For Pakistan, Naseem Shah managed two wickets.