The New Zealand cricket team, also known as the “Black Caps” have always been a fan favourite irrespective of them winning or losing a match. The team has always enjoyed the support of the neutrals by default and have a global fan base who adore and admire them. Surprisingly not just fans but even players from opposing teams admire and support them for their sportsmanship and resilience.
New Zealand tour of India begins today with a three-match T20I series and a two-match Test just days post their World Cup play.
Are you wondering what is the reason behind growing admiration for the Kiwi cricketers? Why do fans and fellow cricketers around the globe always root for the team? Two words sum it all – Grace and Dignity. Nicknamed as the “Nice Guys” they are known for being polite and calm even under extreme pressure.
As the games begin, we are sharing a glimpse of the New Zealand cities and towns some of the most loved and adored Kiwi cricketers belong to.
Kane Williamson – The Captain cool
Known for his excellent captaincy and ruled by calmness, Kane Williamson has been a pillar of the New Zealand cricket team since his debut in 2010. With his father being a cricketer and his mother being a basketball player, he hails from a sporting family in Mount Maunganui. Mount Maunganui, a laid-back town, is known for the extinct Mount Maunganui volcano, and a sacred Maori site with ocean-view hiking paths. Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach has been crowned the ‘Best Beach in New Zealand’ by TripAdvisor and ranks among the top 25 best beaches in the world. One can relax on white sand beaches, surf in the warm ocean waves, or swim in the relaxing waters of Pilot Bay.
Trent Boult – The Bowling prodigy
Trent Boult won accolades when he became one of the first bowlers in the New Zealand cricket team to have a hattrick during the 2019 World Cup. Born in Rotorua, Boult grew up in Ohope and Tauranga. Ohope, famous to be a beach settlement is known for being one of the safest beaches and is a treat to the people visiting New Zealand thanks to it’s white sands and low tide. Tauranga is a metropolitan hub surrounded by a beautiful coastline. It offers New Zealand’s finest beaches for swimming, surfing and other water sports. It’s a city one shouldn’t surely miss visiting when in New Zealand.
James Neesham – Jimmy
Famously known as Jimmy, Neesham is a true all-rounder and is known for hitting big with his bat and scalping useful wickets. As a force to reckon with, he always delivers powerful performances whenever New Zealand needed it. He hails from the vibrant city Auckland which sprawls over volcanic hills and around twin harbours, offering an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures. Be it beautiful beaches, hiking trails or enchanting holiday islands, Auckland is one city sure to be in everyone’s “must -visit” list.
Brendon McCullum – The magician on field
A former captain, cricket coach and commentator, he is one of the finest batsmen but also among the best Kiwi gloves-men. Known for his stellar performance during his stint at the IPL, the Kiwi stumper hails from Dunedin. Known for its Scottish and Maori heritage, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and a large student population, this city has so much to see and do from the heritage buildings to the rare wildlife to the spectacular landscapes. This city has something to offer everyone who visits it.
Stephen Fleming – The Batting Legend
From being a legendary New Zealand captain to coaching one of the finest IPL teams, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Stephen Fleming has donned multiple caps in his cricketing career. He is a man of grace topped with determination. He hails from Christchurch which is one of the world’s most unique destinations that combines innovation with heritage, culture and exhilarating activity. Ample street art and green spaces makes this place a favourite to many.
Though the borders are closed for now, one can experience the Kiwi spirit during the India vs New Zealand T20 series. Gear up to experience the magic. Let the games begin.
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