In spite of an extended period away due to a knee injury, there is optimism within the New Zealand squad that their leader will stage a return for the esteemed competition.
Stead has shared that there will be a fortnight available for Williamson to showcase his readiness and condition. New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, has provided insight into the potential for Kane Williamson’s involvement in the imminent ODI World Cup 2023.
Notably, Williamson has been absent from competitive cricket for close to five months following a knee injury sustained during the inaugural match of Indian Premier League 2023, where he represented the Gujarat Titans.
Having undergone surgery for an ACL rupture, Williamson has been consistently progressing towards recuperation and recently recommenced training.
He dedicated time with the national team in readiness for the England tour. “We have roughly a fortnight before we announce the squad. We intend to afford him every opportunity and make full use of the time he is engaged in comprehensive rehabilitation. He has resumed batting sessions in practice, a positive sight. His advancement is substantial, yet there remains substantial work to ensure his attainment of the desired state,” Stead informed journalists in England.
While expressing satisfaction regarding Williamson’s return to practice, Coach Stead communicated that it is conceivable that the captain might miss the initial few encounters of New Zealand’s campaign, even if he is deemed fit and included in the ODI World Cup team.
“Estimating his exact status still involves speculation. Naturally, we aspire to include him in the World Cup, yet we must consider the bigger picture of preserving Kane Williamson’s fitness throughout his career,” Stead remarked.
Simultaneously, New Zealand is set to journey to England for four T20Is and an equivalent number of ODIs, commencing on August 30.
The opening match of World Cup 2023 between these two teams is scheduled for October 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
