The ICC World Cup 2023 has been a rollercoaster of emotions for cricket fans worldwide, with thrilling matches and unforeseen twists. New Zealand, one of the tournament’s strong contenders, started their campaign with a bang, winning four consecutive matches. However, their journey took an unexpected turn with a series of losses, and now, they face a challenge to secure a spot in the semi-finals. Adding to their woes, injuries to key players Mark Chapman and James Neesham have further complicated matters.
New Zealand’s campaign in the ICC World Cup 2023 began on a high note, with four back-to-back victories that put them on a promising path towards the semi-finals. Their impeccable performances had fans dreaming of lifting the coveted trophy. However, cricket, as we know, can be unpredictable. The Black Caps encountered many losses, losing their last three matches. While they still hold a favorable position to advance to the next stage, they can’t afford any more slip-ups.
One of the setbacks faced by New Zealand was the injury to Mark Chapman, a player who had been contributing significantly to the team’s success. Chapman featured in the first five games of the ongoing competition, displaying his prowess with the bat. However, he was forced to miss the games against Australia and South Africa due to a calf injury. His absence was a blow to the team, and fans were left anxious about his return.
James Neesham’s journey in the World Cup has been a rollercoaster ride of its own. He played a crucial role in the game against England before finding himself out of the playing eleven for the next four games. However, Neesham returned, filling the void left by Mark Chapman’s injury. Unfortunately, fate had other plans. During the game against South Africa in Pune on November 1, Neesham injured his right wrist when struck by the ball while bowling.
New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, provided updates on the conditions of Mark Chapman and James Neesham. He expressed hope that Mark Chapman’s recovery is progressing well and that he will likely be available for the team’s next game. This news is a relief for fans who have missed Chapman’s contributions.
“Mark Chapman has progressed very well. We are hopeful he will be available for the next game. Jimmy Neesham got hit on the hand last night when he was bowling. He went in and got that x-ray and was cleared of bony damage, but he’ll be very sore,” Gary Stead said.
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In the case of James Neesham, the injury seemed concerning, but the good news is that he was cleared of any severe damage, particularly any bony damage. However, the blow he received resulted in severe bruising. As a result, Neesham may miss the upcoming game due to the discomfort and soreness caused by the injury.
“And we have just to manage to see what he can do. He was struggling last night to pick up the bat at all. So that may be some deep bruising, and we will have to manage that over the next 48 hours,” he added.
Gary Stead on Kyle Jamieson heading to India as squad cover and injury updates on Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Jimmy Neesham, Kane Williamson and Mark Chapman. #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/0CBwfqi62G
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) November 2, 2023
