ODI World Cup 2023

‘India ko phir bhi hara de gaye woh log’ – Fans react as New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell ruled out of ODI World CUP 2023

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New Zealand’s preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup have suffered another setback as all-rounder Michael Bracewell is expected to be sidelined for six to eight months after suffering a ruptured right Achilles tendon. Bracewell was hurt while playing for the Worcestershire Rapids in the English T20 Blast.

The New Zealand Cricket Board confirmed the 32-year-old will undergo surgery in the UK on Thursday (June 15) and will take more than six months to recover. Bracewell’s injury came at a critical moment for both him and the Black Caps, since he was a key player for his country in the forthcoming World Cup.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said the spin bowling all-rounder has been a great asset to the team since his debut and he was expected to play a crucial role in the 50-over tournament.

“Firstly, you always feel for the player when injury strikes and especially when it means they will have to miss a world event. Michael’s a great team man and has had a fantastic 15 months for the BLACKCAPS since his international debut,” Stead said.

“We’ve seen his exceptional skills in all three facets of the game and he was shaping as an important player for us at the world cup in India. Michael’s naturally pretty disappointed, but also pragmatic in acknowledging that injuries are a part of sport and he’s now turning his focus to his rehabilitation,” he added.

Kiwis will also miss the services of Kane Williamson

The 2019 World Cup runners-up have already been dealt a big blow, as their regular skipper Kane Williamson will not be available for the major multi-national competition, which will be held in India from October to November.  The ace batter, who sustained an injury while playing for Gujarat Titans during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

However, with Trent Boult returning to the New Zealand squad on a casual contract, the Kiwis will be hoping for a great outing in the World Cup. The combination of Boult, Adam Milne and Tim Southee will be a lethal pace attack for them.

Here’s how fans reacted as Michael Bracewell was ruled out of the World CUP 2023: 

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