(Cricket News) Kane Williamson is set to assume the role of captain for New Zealand in the upcoming World Cup next month, as confirmed by the country’s cricket board on Monday. This decision comes after Williamson showed “adequate progress” in his recovery from a knee injury that necessitated surgery. The injury occurred during the Indian Premier League in early April, raising doubts about his participation in the tournament.
With only two weeks initially given to prove his fitness for the 50-overs World Cup scheduled from October 5th to November 19th in India, Williamson’s inclusion in the squad has now been confirmed. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) released a statement stating, “Williamson has made sufficient progress in his recovery to allow him to be included in the squad for the tournament starting in October.”
New Zealand coach Gary Stead commended Williamson’s unwavering commitment, stating, “He’s left no stone unturned in trying to get back playing cricket at the highest level. We are delighted to be in a place to select him. At the same time, he’s also kept perspective about his recovery and hasn’t wanted to rush or force his way back too early. As we’ve previously said, it’s great he wants to play cricket for New Zealand in the long term.”
However, Stead emphasized that there is no fixed timeline for Williamson’s return, emphasizing their intent to provide him with ample time for recovery. He stated, “As we’ve said throughout this process, we want to give Kane every bit of available time to aid his recovery. The World Cup is not a short tournament, and we will continue to monitor his progress over the next month ahead of the first tournament match.”
NZC also announced that the remaining members of the squad would be unveiled on September 11th. New Zealand is currently engaged in a four-match T20 international series against England, with the final match taking place on Tuesday. Subsequently, they will face England in a four-match one-day international series.
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