New Zealand Hit by Injury Concerns Ahead of ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup

As the clock ticks down to the highly anticipated ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, New Zealand’s preparations have been marred by a series of injury setbacks, raising concerns over the team’s readiness for the tournament. 

Daryl Mitchell and Finn Allen’s Injury Saga

The injury worries began when all-rounder Daryl Mitchell walked off the field with an injury to his ring finger. This occurred after Mitchell took a spectacular slip catch to dismiss Jonny Bairstow. Fortunately, Mitchell was able to return to the field and even bowled, providing some relief to the New Zealand camp. 

The injury saga continued as opener Finn Allen sustained a finger injury. Allen’s injury occurred when he attempted to take a difficult catch off Joe Root in the 12th over of the match. While making a valiant one-handed effort, Allen hurt his finger, which forced him to leave the field. However, there was good news for New Zealand, as Allen was cleared of any fractures. 

Tim Southee and Ben Lister’s Woes

The most concerning injury development involved the veteran pacer Tim Southee. Southee attempted to take a catch off Ben Lister’s delivery but ended up dislocating and fracturing a bone in his right thumb. New Zealand’s team management issued an update on Southee’s condition, stating that a timeline for his recovery would be established after further assessments. Southee’s injury has raised questions about his availability for the World Cup. 

Adding to New Zealand’s woes, fast bowler Ben Lister also left the field due to a hamstring issue after bowling six overs. The extent of Lister’s injury and its impact on his World Cup prospects remain uncertain. 

These injury concerns come at a time when New Zealand is already apprehensive about the fitness of their star batter, Kane Williamson. Although he has been named in the World Cup squad, Williamson is yet to make a return to competitive cricket after a prolonged absence due to injury.

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