– Tim Southee ruled out of New Zealand's 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup opener against England. – Thumb injury sustained in August.

– Stand-in captain Tom Latham confirms Southee's recovery progress. – Anticipates Southee's availability later in the tournament.

– Southee is New Zealand's all-time leading wicket-taker in Test and ODI cricket. – Currently captains the New Zealand Test team. – Awarded New Zealand Cricketer of the Year in 2013 and 2021.

– New Zealand possesses a strong bowling lineup. – Includes bowlers like Trent Boult, Matt Henry, and Kyle Jamieson. – Offers depth in the absence of Southee.

– New Zealand vs. England in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup opener. – Match scheduled for October 5, 2023, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. – New Zealand remains hopeful for Southee's swift recovery to enhance their chances of winning the tournament.