New Zealand cricket legend Ross Taylor is optimistic about his country’s prospects in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Speaking exclusively, Taylor endorsed Finn Allen and Tim Seifert as the ideal opening pair to lead the Black Caps into the tournament.
Allen has been in scintillating form, topping the Big Bash League run charts with 466 runs at a staggering strike rate of 184.18 while clinching the title with Perth Scorchers. He’s now rejoined the Kiwi squad ahead of their final T20I against India in Thiruvananthapuram.
“New Zealand always steps up for ICC events,” Taylor asserted. Despite a rocky 0-3 start in the series, he highlighted the confidence boost from their Visakhapatnam victory. Facing India at home, he noted, prepares them perfectly for global stages.
Taylor envisions Allen and Seifert setting the tone at the top. “It won’t be a tough call,” he said, pondering the No. 3 spot between Rachin Ravindra or Devon Conway. New Zealand’s 2021 runner-up finish underscores their pedigree.
On team balance, Taylor addressed injury concerns but praised the squad’s depth, with replacements like Ben Sears stepping up amid absences for Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry. He emphasized spin’s pivotal role: “How they bat and bowl against spin will define their campaign.”
Currently in Goa for the World Legends Pro T20 League, Taylor cherishes reunions with old teammates, fueling his insights into New Zealand’s bright future.