In a massive boost for the New Zealand Cricket Team, skipper Kane Williamson is expected to return for their World Cup clash against Bangladesh on October 13. Williamson, who is not yet completely fit from the rupture ACL injury he sustained during IPL 2023, missed New Zealand’s opening match against England for precautionary reasons. The Kiwis are set to take on Netherlands tomorrow.
Williamson is ruled out of that clash. However, NZ team doctors and physios are sure that the veteran batter will be fit in time for the team’s third clash against Bangladesh. Although Williamson featured in two WC warm-up matches, NZC wanted their skipper fully fit’ before playing in the WC matches. In the 33-year-old’s absence, Tom Latham is captaining the side.
“Kane’s also been progressing very well – I think the fielding is still the element for him that he’s just got to get a little bit higher and get a little more trust in his body,” Stead said to NZC website.
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Speaking about New Zealand, they have begun their WC 2023 campaign on a winning note by beating England by nine wickets.
Kane Williamson: Williamson boost for New Zealand, as the talismanic skipper to play first WC match
While Williamson’s return against Bangladesh will be a massive confidence booster, it also gives a few selection headaches in New Zealand. In the skipper’s absence, Rachin Ravindra has taken his chances with both hands and scored a sublime ton against England. The southpaw also picked up one wicket with the ball in hand.
Will Young has been a consistent performer for NZ for the past year, although the youngster missed out on scoring runs against England, New Zealand are likely to open with him in the ongoing World Cup. With Young set to return his place and Ravindra showing enough promise at the top, Who will New Zealand drops to accommodate Williamson remains to be seen.
While NZC provided an update on Williamson, question marks remain over Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson’s fitness.
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