ICC World Cup 2019 | We have to be lot more competitive than we have been in last few games, says Kane Williamson

Unless Pakistan pull-off a miraculous 300-plus margin win over Bangladesh on Friday, New Zealand are certain of a place in the semifinals of the World Cup. This comes after a third successive defeat at the hands of hosts England. New Zealand were outplayed in all the departments by the Englishmen who beat them by 119 runs, confirming their place in the semifinals as well. 

The string of defeats for New Zealand got underway when Pakistan surprised everybody with a thorough six-wicket win against them. Ever since, nothing has gone right for the Kiwis.

“It's not ideal to lose three games consecutively. It's a simple road ahead but not easy. We have to be a lot more competitive than we have been in the last few games. It's important to learn from our mistakes moving forward,” Williamson said at the post-match presentation, reported Cricbuzz.

Against England, it was obvious that England had the better of the conditions. However, the Blackcaps skipper wasn’t willing to blame the toss or the conditions for their loss.

“They got the best of the conditions, but they were the better team. The conditions didn't decide the result, but it did change after 20 overs of their batting, and the cutters became effective on a slower wicket. Their bowlers put us under pressure from the start so full credit to England,” Williamson said.

“We haven't had the flow in the batting. There are a number of variables. Today with a couple of run-outs, and one down the leg-side, it's not ideal to start a chase that way. It's one of those things. There is so much to learn from, but the most important thing is that we need to add value to our side from an individual perspective and perform our respective roles well."

In the bowling front, New Zealand have looked sharp. Speedster Lockie Ferguson, who leads the way with 17 wickets, was left out with an injury against England. However, the captain assured the fans by explaining that it was only a precaution. Looking ahead, Williamson urged his team to push forward with a refreshed mindset for the semis, noting that their best is yet to come. 

“If we are allowed the opportunity, anything can happen in the semi-finals and we haven't played our best cricket yet,” the Kiwi captain signed off.