‘We are confident in the players and the group we have’ – Assistant coach Craig McMillan of NZ-W is excited about the T20 World Cup

With the Women’s T20 World Cup starting on October 3, New Zealand is confident in their chances of winning. The experts may not see the White Ferns as the favorites, but assistant coach Craig McMillan pointed out that they have what it takes to persevere and take home the prize.

Notably, on Friday, October 4, the team captained by Sophie Devine will play India in the T20 World Cup. The top two teams after the round advance to the semi-finals, which are scheduled for October 17 and 18, respectively. They will also play Australia, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan in the group stage. McMillan added that the team is excited about the event and is optimistic in their chances.

“I believe that the group’s expectations will remain unchanged, but we are enthusiastic about the upcoming (T20) World Cup and the matches in our group,” I would say. We’re excited about the event and are confidence in our players and group, even though we know we probably won’t be one of the teams that many people pick, McMillan told ICC Digital.

I enjoy our current balance: Craig McMillan

McMillan expressed his desire to see iconic cricketers like Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine retire with at least one trophy, and he thinks the T20 World Cup in 2024 is the ideal occasion to do it. He went on to say that the team is balanced this time around and that he hopes the players perform to the best of their abilities.

“There isn’t a better way in my opinion for two New Zealand game legends, Devine and Bates, to possibly retire, maybe with a trophy in their hands,” the statement read.

Also Read: 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup: Sophie Devine is selected captain and New Zealand announces their squad

“It’s a good balance to have the younger players picking up skills from the more seasoned players, but everyone needs to be doing their job as best they can, because you never know what could happen when it comes time for the World Cup,” he continued.