Often, when cricketers change nations, it is more in search of new opportunities. In most cases, this switch happens from a more established cricketing nation to a less established one. That said, we have also witnessed many examples of the inverse happening. In either case, these players going on to play in a 10-team ODI World Cup is a massive feat. On that note, here, we take a look at two cricketers who changed nations a few years ago and are playing in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
1) Mark Chapman – New Zealand
The Kiwi all-rounder played for Hong Kong in the initial days of his career. He did well for them and through his father, he was able to obtain a chance to play for New Zealand.
Now, Mark Chapman will represent the Kiwis at the 2023 ODI World Cup. A batting all-rounder, Mark might come in as a good option in the middle-order whenever the situation arises. Especially with his spin bowling, he adds balance and could be a key component in New Zealand’s campaign.
2) Roelof van der Merwe
Roelof van der Merwe is one of the cricketers who changed nations a few years ago and is playing in the 2023 ODI World Cup. In an interesting move, the Netherlands picked Roelof van der Merwe for the ODI World Cup squad. Interestingly, he did not play in the qualifiers held a few months ago, although he was available.
Many did not expect the Netherlands to overcome the likes of West Indies, Ireland and Zimbabwe to reach the elusive tournament in India. However, having reached it, experience becomes important. Having played in the past for South Africa and then many years for the Dutch, Roelof was not short of experience. He is a spin-bowling all-rounder and this attribute further helped him nail a place in the squad.
