ICC World Cup 2019: One player from each of the top 5 ICC ODI ranked teams that can help them win the tournament

ODI Rank #3 New Zealand - Ross Taylor

Ross Taylor

Just like South Africa, New Zealand has over the years failed to capitalize on their excellent show in the ICC World Cup tournaments. No other team in the history of cricket has reached the threshold so often (semi-finalists – 1975, 1979, 1992, 1999, 2007, 2011 and finalists 2015) and failed to transform it into a tournament win. It’s absolutely unreal.

Unlike previous World Cup editions, New Zealand is not a star-studded team anymore and they strongly thrive on the team effort to win games. Having said that; they are blessed to have few quality players like Kane Williamson, Martin Guptill, Tim Southee, Trent Boult, and Tom Latham to set the world on fire on their day. However, New Zealand will heavily rely on their experienced star batsman Ross Taylor to lead them through and take them a long way into the tournament.

By the looks of things, it appears that the ICC ranked #3 ODI batsman will bat at all-important No. 4 slot and will be the batting mainstay for the New Zealand team. His presence in the middle order will provide the ideal fusion of stability and aggression in the middle overs. Not only, he will keep the scoreboard ticking at a good pace but his presence will invariably result in a perfect launchpad for the onslaught in the final few overs.

Also, his ability to dismantle any bowling attack with his impeccable hand-eye coordination and exuberant shot making can really turn the game around any moment. Needless to say, the 35-year-old senior veteran will be expected to hold the innings together from either end – top order and lower order and guide them through his invaluable experience.

This edition of ICC World Cup, the Black Caps will look to create history and for a change, not just reach close to the World Cup title but actually win it and for that to happen, Taylor will have to play his role exceptionally well.