New Zealand’s quest for a coveted limited-overs World Cup trophy hinges on the enduring prowess of their golden generation trio: Kane Williamson, Tim Southee, and Trent Boult. After several near misses, the Black Caps hope for one last hurrah to finally clinch the elusive prize.

One of New Zealand’s most heart-wrenching moments came in the 2019 50-over World Cup final against England, where they fell short on boundary countback after two Super Overs. Despite this, they displayed remarkable sportsmanship. Earlier, Australia had convincingly defeated them in the 2015 final, and they experienced another setback in the 2021 Twenty20 World Cup final.

Coach Gary Stead has anxiously monitored medical reports, especially since Williamson suffered knee ligament damage during the Indian Premier League in April. Despite the setback, Williamson made a remarkable recovery and featured in a warm-up win against Pakistan, although he won’t be available for the tournament opener against England.

Southee, dealing with a recent broken thumb requiring five pins, remains determined to play, potentially in New Zealand’s second game.

Boult, fully fit, returns to the squad, having ventured into lucrative Twenty20 franchise cricket after stepping back from a central contract last year.