TROPHY-STARVED BLACKCAPS VETERANS HUNGRY TO BREAK WORLD CUP DUCK

A settled and experienced Blackcaps squad has been named for June's T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA, with one of those veterans conceding an elusive title is the only reason he still plays.

Thirteen of the 15 from the last tournament two years ago have been included, with Rachin Ravindra and Matt Henry the only incoming changes and the hunger is greater than ever for silverware.

 "It's an experienced looking squad, it's an exciting looking squad still with lots of options," said coach Gary Stead.

"We've come close in the T20 format," added veteran seamer Tim Southee. "Obviously a final two world cups ago and a semi-final last time around, so a number of guys experienced that. 

Among those who have, Trent Boult.

The left-arm paceman has played just 11 of the side's 58 T20 internationals in the last two years and just twice in the format since the last World Cup.

Boult's infrequent appearances have raised questions over his future in international cricket, questions Stead dismissed.

"That's something you'll have to ask Trent and how long he sees himself playing for," he said.

What doesn't need clarifying is that Boult's among a golden generation still missing that elusive white ball crown, despite reaching the semi-finals or the final at the last six tournaments.

The hunger and determination is fuelling many, including Jimmy Neesham. 

"Winning a world tournament is probably the only reason I still play for New Zealand," said Neesham.  

 But for those who only returned from the T20 series in Pakistan on Monday, there are other things on the mind.

"Certainly looking forward to getting home and getting a bit of sleep," Neesham admitted. 

With the World Cup still over a month away, there's plenty of time for that.

2024-04-29T06:57:53Z dg43tfdfdgfd