3 biggest flops for New Zealand in the first half of 2023

Historically, the New Zealand cricket team has frequently been regarded as a very strong team, primarily due to its top-notch players. Tremendous expertise has always emanated from the Kiwi. On the other hand, in this article, we will analyze some of the players who experienced the biggest flops in the first half of 2023.

1. Finn Allen

New Zealand star all-rounder Finn Allen made his international debut in 2021. Furthermore, the young top-order batter scored a landmark century against Scotland on July 20, 2022, showcasing his ability to bat. However, owing to his poor form this year, as compared to the previous two years, the 24-year-old is not getting as many chances to play for his team. His last T20 match was on February 1st, 2023, and he played his last ODI on the 25th of March against Sri Lanka, but he failed to contribute much to help his side. On top of that, the young opener has not yet secured a berth in the Royal Challengers’ starting XI. Notably, the stylish right-handed batter has been a part of the team since IPL 2021, and he continues to wait for his IPL breakthrough.

2. Glenn Phillips

Glenn Phillips, an elite wicketkeeper batter for New Zealand, made his T20I debut in 2017, but it wasn’t until 2020 that he solidified himself in the white-ball side. The stylish right-handed batter, who typically bats in the middle order, played a key role in New Zealand’s advance to the 2021 T20 World Cup final and also delivered a memorable performance in the 2022 event when he scored 104 runs off 64 balls against Sri Lanka in a game. Notably, in 2023, the 26-year-old marked himself by capturing New Zealand’s first ODI series in the subcontinent since 2008 with a fighting half-century at No. 7 against Pakistan. Except for that, the South African-born cricketer failed to do enough in 2023 to assist his team. Glenn Phillips’ skills were purchased by the Hyderabad franchise for Rs 1.50 crore at the IPL Auction 2023. But he wasn’t able to contribute much there either, as his franchise was the first to get eliminated from the tournament.

3. Lockie Ferguson

New Zealand star bowler Lockie Ferguson, who is considered a great pace bowler, has the potential to win contests for the Kiwis. The 32-year-old delivers at a blistering pace and boasts a tall frame. Generally, fast bowlers sometimes have to slow down these days in order to be stronger on the world stage. Ferguson, like most of them, is susceptible to harm, yet what stands out is his relentless devotion to bowling faster. Notably, the right-arm fast bowler had been moved from the Gujarat Titans to the Kolkata Knight Riders before the start of the IPL in 2023. On top of that, the great seamer failed to contribute substantially to the team in the year 2023, either in the IPL or in his international career.