In a post-match statement following New Zealand‘s elimination from the 2023 World Cup, Captain Kane Williamson remained optimistic about the future of the team, emphasizing that “it wasn’t over just yet.” Despite a 70-run defeat to India in the first semi-final, Williamson saw promising signs for the team’s growth.
Williamson acknowledged the age factor in their squad, with a majority expected to be in their mid-to-late-30s during the next 50-over World Cup in 2027. He emphasized the importance of an ongoing effort to improve as a team and looked forward to bringing in new talent. The captain expressed confidence in the team’s ability to learn and progress, stating, “It wasn’t over just yet.”
Reflecting on the Defeat and India’s Performance
Reflecting on the semi-final loss, Williamson admitted that India batted his side out of the game at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. He credited India for their formidable performance, stating, “They didn’t give us a sniff, really.” Despite the challenging conditions, he commended the opposition’s quality and their ability to control the game from the start.
Addressing the conditions of the game, Williamson mentioned that they would have chosen to bat first if they had won the toss. He noted the changing conditions as the match progressed and acknowledged India’s effective use of the opportunities presented. Despite the loss, he emphasized that the team would take the experience in stride and focus on becoming a better side.
Dealing with Injuries and Looking Ahead
Injuries played a role in New Zealand’s campaign, with key players like Matt Henry sidelined. Williamson acknowledged the challenges posed by injuries but commended the team’s attitude and resilience. He highlighted that despite the setbacks, the team displayed good cricket and remained competitive.
While New Zealand’s World Cup journey may have ended sooner than desired, Captain Kane Williamson’s positive outlook on the team’s future provided fans with hope. The focus remained on continuous improvement, bringing in new talent, and building on the valuable experiences gained during the tournament.
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