Lockie Ferguson replaces Ish Sodhi in New Zealand’s lineup, while Sri Lanka brings in Chamika Karunaratne for Kasun Rajitha

As the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 progresses, New Zealand faces a must-win situation against Sri Lanka to strengthen their chances of advancing to the knockout stages.

High Stakes for New Zealand

Despite starting their campaign on a high note with four consecutive victories, New Zealand’s journey to the semi-finals has been jeopardized by a string of losses. Currently, they stand on par with Pakistan and Afghanistan, each with eight points and one group stage match remaining.

With the superior net run rate giving them an edge, Kane Williamson’s team occupies the crucial fourth spot. However, as the first among the three semi-final aspirants to complete their group stage matches, the Black Caps need to elevate their net run rate further to secure their position.

Even if they face defeat against Sri Lanka or if the match results in a no-result due to adverse conditions, New Zealand can still hope to progress. However, this would require both Pakistan and Afghanistan to end their group stage without another win.

Sri Lanka’s Quest for a Top-Eight Finish

Despite being out of the semi-finals race, Sri Lanka has its own battles to fight. The 1996 champions aim to secure a victory over New Zealand, which could potentially place them in the top eight, thereby ensuring their place in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Team Lineups

New Zealand’s Playing XI:

Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson (C), Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tom Latham, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult

Sri Lanka’s Playing XI:

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (C), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka.