Former New Zealand cricketer Shane Bond believes that despite suffering multiple injury setbacks, the Black Caps remain a strong contender in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. Bond highlighted the squad’s depth, particularly the presence of multiple all-rounders, as a key factor that provides balance and flexibility, making New Zealand a formidable force in the tournament.
New Zealand’s preparations were hit hard with injuries ruling out key pacers Ben Sears and Lockie Ferguson. Their absence prompted the inclusion of Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson as replacements. While these disruptions could pose challenges, Bond, in a conversation with ESPN Cricinfo, asserted that the Black Caps still have a well-rounded squad capable of fielding a competitive playing XI. He emphasized that the experience within the squad and the presence of several all-rounders strengthen both their batting and bowling depth.
“It’s transitioning, but really there’s still a lot of depth and experience within that New Zealand team. If you look at who they’ve lost, it’s probably Boult and Southee, and now Lockie Ferguson through injury. But it’s still a very experienced lineup. They have players who have succeeded in subcontinent conditions, and they’ve been a strong ODI side over the years. Their recent success in the Tri-Series should give them confidence heading into the tournament,” Shane Bond said.
ALSO READ: Milind Rege Passes Away At 76: Mumbai Cricket Mourns The Loss Of A Legend
He also underlined the value of New Zealand’s all-rounders, pointing out how their inclusion bolsters both departments.
“Having four spin-bowling all-rounders, with three of them being genuine batsmen, means someone like Mitch Santner could be coming in at number eight. You could even have Nathan Smith or Matt Henry at number nine. There’s depth in batting, a good mix of left and right-handers, and power hitters. The wickets will turn, and New Zealand will have plenty of options with Rachin Ravindra also coming in as a spin-bowling all-rounder. Players like Will Young and Mark Chapman, who has been very successful in Pakistan, might miss out, which just shows how strong the squad is. They are coming into this tournament far better prepared than they were for the T20 World Cup,” he added.
New Zealand will open their Champions Trophy campaign against co-hosts Pakistan on February 19 in Karachi. Their recent Tri-Series victory over Pakistan at the same venue provides them with a psychological advantage heading into the crucial encounter. However, concerns persist over player availability, with star all-rounder Rachin Ravindra still recovering from a serious facial injury sustained during the Tri-Series.
Head coach Gary Stead recently stated that while Ravindra is making steady progress, his participation in the opening match remains uncertain. His absence would be a significant blow to New Zealand, given his contributions with both bat and ball. Despite these challenges, Bond remains optimistic about New Zealand’s prospects in the tournament. He believes their recent success, combined with squad versatility and a wealth of experience, will help them remain highly competitive.
ALSO READ: Dinesh Karthik Questions India’s 5-Spinner Strategy For Champions Trophy 2025
The team will also be motivated to improve their ICC tournament record, having come agonizingly close in the 2019 ODI World Cup final and facing an early exit in 2023 at the hands of India. With a strong core of all-rounders, a mix of youth and experience, and the confidence of recent victories, New Zealand will look to overcome their injury setbacks and make a deep run in the Champions Trophy.
