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New Zealand captain Kane Williamson applauded the T20 World Cup’s expansion to include 20 nations following the stunning upset where co-hosts United States defeated Pakistan on Thursday, marking one of the most significant upsets in the tournament’s history.
The World Cup, which is also co-hosted by the West Indies, now includes an additional four teams. This expansion provides fledgling cricket nations with valuable big-tournament experience. However, it also raises concerns about the possibility of more one-sided results.
Williamson, who entered the T20 World Cup scene in 2012 during Sri Lanka’s hosting of 12 teams, expressed his opinion that the expanded field is a “fantastic thing”.
“That sort of exposure is only beneficial for all teams,” he told reporters on a video call from Guyana.
“When you come to tournament-time anything can happen which is the beauty of the sport.
“But it’s ultimately great for the growth .”
The United States, granted entry as co-hosts, secured a thrilling Super Over victory against Pakistan in Dallas, following their triumph over fellow tournament debutants Canada. With an unblemished record, the Americans currently lead Group A standings ahead of their upcoming clash against cricket heavyweights India next week. The top two teams in the group will progress to the Super 8 phase. Williamson mentioned that his team observed the Pakistan upset from their Caribbean base.
“That was an amazing game of cricket,” he added.
“In these tournaments every team has really talented players, whether they’ve had experience against test-playing nations or not.
“In some ways, it’s on the day.”
New Zealand, bidding for their maiden World Cup title, kick off against Afghanistan in Guyana on Friday, having waited long to get into the action.
“We’re one of the last teams to start so I know we’re all looking forward to starting off the tournament after spending maybe 10 days or so practising,” he said.
