ICC World Cup 2023, NZ Vs BAN | Five Player Battles To Watch Out For

image-lnmwjmzzNew Zealand will look to continue their winning streak

The M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai is charged with excitement, ready to host the clash between New Zealand and Bangladesh in Match 11 of World Cup 2023 on Friday, October 13.


NZ vs BAN: Player battles to watch out for

New Zealand, buoyed by their consecutive victories against England and the Netherlands, will be eager to maintain their winning streak. On the other hand, Bangladesh, after a stunning win against Afghanistan but a subsequent defeat to England, will be hungry to reclaim their momentum.

Amidst the electrifying atmosphere, there are specific player matchups that stand out, promising to intensify the contest. Here’s a look at the top five player battles that are set to fascinate fans with their epic duels.


Devon Conway vs Mustafizur Rahman

image-lnn01g72Devon Conway in action [AP]

The battle between New Zealand's Devon Conway and Bangladesh's Mustafizur Rahman is set to be a thrilling one. In their previous encounters, Conway has been relatively successful against Rahman, having scored 52 runs off just 40 balls, at a strike rate of 130.0. 

Mustafizur has managed to dismiss him once, leaving Conway with an impressive average of 52.0 against him. Given Conway's form and skills at the crease and Rahman's ability to deliver key breakthroughs, spectators can expect an enthralling contest between bat and ball.


Najmul Hossain Shanto vs Trent Boult

image-lnmx45f8Najmul Hossain (Twitter)

Najmul Hossain Shanto's matchup with New Zealand pacer Trent Boult is crucial for Bangladesh's top-order stability. Shanto has faced 8 deliveries from Boult so far and has scored exactly 8 runs, without getting dismissed, maintaining a strike rate of 100. 

Boult, known for his lethal swing and precision, will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in Shanto's technique. It remains to be seen whether Shanto can handle the pressure and give his team a solid start.


Tom Latham vs Taskin Ahmed

image-lnn05oruTom Latham in action [AP]

Tom Latham's face-off with Taskin Ahmed is expected to be an engaging watch. Latham, in his past duels with Ahmed, has managed to score freely, amassing 65 runs from 48 balls at a strike rate of 135.4, without being dismissed even once. 

Taskin, known for his pace and bounce, will be eager to break this streak and give Bangladesh an early breakthrough. Their matchup is key, with Latham's anchoring ability up against Ahmed's aggression.


Kane Williamson vs Shakib Al Hasan

image-lnn07dmkKane Williamson [AP]

Arguably one of the most anticipated battles of the game will be between New Zealand’s returning skipper Kane Williamson and his Bangladesh counterpart, Shakib Al Hasan. The two stalwarts have a balanced record against each other. 

Williamson has scored 99 runs off 99 balls faced from Shakib at an average of 99.0 and a strike rate of 100.0. The southpaw has managed to outfox Williamson once and will be aiming to repeat the feat in this crucial encounter. Thus, their tactical play and vast experience make this a must-watch contest.


Mushfiqur Rahim vs Mitchell Santner

image-lnmx5gyuMushfiqur Rahim (Twitter)

Veteran wicket-keeper batsman Mushfiqur Rahim's clash with New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner is bound to have a significant impact on the middle overs. Rahim has scored 42 runs from 60 deliveries off Santner at a modest strike rate of 70.0, and an average of 42.0, having been dismissed once. 

Santner's spin against Rahim's exceptional footwork makes this a battle of wits and skill. Both players have the capability to turn the game in their team's favour, making their contest exciting.