Former New Zealand cricketer Tim Southee has highlighted compatriots Kane Williamson and Australian batsman Travis Head as potential top scorers for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19.
In a video released by the ICC, Southee praised Williamson’s adaptability and impressive one-day international (ODI) record, suggesting that he would excel in the conditions expected in Pakistan.
Since his ODI debut in 2010, Williamson has amassed 6,810 runs across 165 matches, boasting an average of 48.64 with 13 centuries and 45 fifties. His highest score stands at 148. Despite his success, the New Zealand team has not advanced past the group stage in the last two editions of the ICC Champions Trophy. However, Williamson has performed well, scoring 345 runs in six innings with an average of 69.00, including a century and three fifties.
Turning to Travis Head, Southee described him as a “dangerous player” who has previously shone in the ODI World Cup. Head has played 69 ODI matches since 2016, scoring 2,645 runs at an average of 44.08 and a strike rate of over 104. His record includes six centuries and 16 fifties, with his top score being an unbeaten 154. His performance in the 2017 Champions Trophy also included a notable unbeaten 71 against England.
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New Zealand will begin its campaign against Pakistan in Karachi on February 19. It will then play Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 24 and India in Dubai on March 2. Meanwhile, Australia will start its campaign against England in Lahore on February 22. Subsequent matches against South Africa and Afghanistan will be held in Rawalpindi on February 25 and 28,, respectively.
These insights from Southee reflect expectations for standout performances from Williamson and Head in the tournament. They underline their importance to their respective teams and hint at the competitive nature of the upcoming games.
