Champions Trophy: Shane Bond backs NZ's squad depth despite setbacks
What's the story
Despite recent injuries, former New Zealand cricketer Shane Bond remains confident in the Black Caps' squad depth.
Ahead of their ICC Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan on February 19, Bond highlighted the team's all-rounders as a key strength.
"It's transitioning, but really there's still a lot of depth and experience within that New Zealand team," he stated while speaking to ESPN Cricinfo.
Squad resilience
NZ's squad depth remains strong despite injuries
The Black Caps have been dealt with a few injuries, including those to Ben Sears and seasoned pacer Lockie Ferguson.
Both have been sidelined from the tournament.
However, Bond remains optimistic about the team's resilience and ability to field a competitive XI.
He further stated, "I think having four spin-bowling all-rounders, and three of them being genuine batsmen. So New Zealand's depth of batting, there's left and right-handers throughout the order and there's power hitting."
Team experience
Bond highlights NZ's experience in subcontinent conditions
Bond emphasized the team's knowledge of subcontinent conditions and their recent successes.
He said, "It's a lineup that has got experience in subcontinent conditions, they've been successful over the last period of time."
The former cricketer also added that having four spin-bowling all-rounders, three of whom are genuine batsmen, adds to New Zealand's batting depth.
Psychological advantage
NZ's recent tri-series victory boosts confidence
The Black Caps face Pakistan in a high-stakes Champions Trophy opener on February 19.
Their recent Tri-Series win over Pakistan at the same venue gives them a psychological edge.
However, injuries remain a concern, with star all-rounder Rachin Ravindra doubtful for the opener due to a serious facial injury sustained during the Tri-Series.
Optimism
Bond optimistic about NZ's chances in Champions Trophy
Despite these setbacks, Bond remains optimistic about New Zealand's Champions Trophy chances.
He believes their recent successes and squad versatility will keep them competitive.
"It's a very good one day side and New Zealand will take a lot of confidence into this tournament given the recent success in the Tri-series," Bond said.
The team is eager to improve its ICC tournament record after heartbreak in the 2019 World Cup final and an early exit in the 2023 edition against India.
Replacement
Jacob Duffy replaces injured Sears in NZ squad
Jacob Duffy has been officially approved by the Event Technical Committee of the Champions Trophy 2025 as a replacement for Ben Sears in the New Zealand squad.
Notably, Sears has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury.
Meanwhile, Duffy has featured in 10 ODIs for the Black Caps. In these 10 ODIs, he has bagged 18 scalps at an average of 25.94 while boasting an economy rate of 6.25.
Squad
New Zealand's revamped squad for the tournament
New Zealand's squad for Champions Trophy: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy.