TOP STORIES
Tim Southee expresses confidence in New Zealand’s ability ahead of Champions Trophy

Former New Zealand bowler Tim Southee has expressed confidence in New Zealand’s ability to claim the Champions Trophy title. Champions Trophy is scheduled to start from February 19 with the clash between New Zealand and hosts Pakistan at National Stadium, Karachi.
His optimism stems from the team's recent success, particularly their triumph in the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series, making them familiar with the conditions in Pakistan. Southee, who retired from international cricket in 2024, highlighted lack of experience in team’s fast bowling following the absence of Trent Boult and himself, but he is very excited to see the team at the mega event.
"It's something different not having Trent (Boult) and myself at an ICC event but, at the same time, it's exciting. These events are great to be a part of and it's in front of these guys now, I'm very excited to see how they go," Southee was quoted as saying in a ICC press release.
"The way the team has played, different guys have stepped up. It's a good mix between some experienced guys and some exciting young guys with a lot of potential."
"The experience of this Tri-Nation Series is only going to stand them in good stead for the tournament. So, taking some momentum into the tournament and being accustomed to those conditions, it's only going to be a good thing," Southee said.
Southee also backed Will O’Rourke to come out strongly. Will O’Rourke took four wickets in the final of the Pakistan ODI tri-series against Pakistan.
“Will O'Rourke, in the Test game we've seen what he can do. He's still so young but he's got all the attributes that are going to set him up to have a lot of success in international cricket. I'm looking forward to watching him in his first ICC event," he said.
Tags
More News

IPL 2025, Eliminator: Mumbai Indians advance to Qualifier 2, beat Gujarat in tense battle
Mumbai Indians stormed into Qualifier 2 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 with a dominant 20-run victory over Gujarat Titans in a high-octane Eliminator clash on Friday at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, MI’s batting lineup delivered a spectacular performance, amassing a ...

AB de Villiers backs Kohli to play a valuable role in IPL final
Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers has praised Virat Kohli for his unwavering determination and backed the RCB to clinch their first IPL title. De Villiers also backed Virat Kohli to play a massive role in the final and guide RCB to their maiden IPL title. His comments come as RCB have showcased exceptional performances this season.<...

Ricky Ponting urges India to play Arshdeep for 1st Test in England
Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has urged India to include Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI of the first Test of the five-match series against England. Arshdeep has been a consistent contributor to India’s limited-overs success, showcasing his brilliant skills in T20Is and ODIs. India's tour of England will start on June 20 with the first Te...

“We have lost the battle, but not the war”: Shreyas Iyer
Punjab Kings faced a crushing eight-wicket defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Qualifier 1 of the IPL on Thursday. PBKS, who have been a dominant force in the league, were bowled out for a mere 101 runs in just 14.1 overs, with all their batters succumbing to the pressure in quick succession. Speaking on the defeat, Punjab skipper Shreyas Iyer...

PAK vs BAN 2nd T20I: All you need to know, head to head, playing XI
Pakistan and Bangladesh are set to face off in the second T20I of their three-match series on Friday in Lahore. Pakistan lead the series 1-0 after a commanding victory in the first match, and they will be eager to clinch the series win. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be looking to level the series and keep their hopes alive.
In the opening match ...