The New Zealand cricket team was dealt with a massive blow when their skipper Kane Williamson sustained an injury during the opening match of IPL 2023. Kane Williamson hasn’t represented the national side ever since that. Kane’s experience would be invaluable ahead of the 2023 ODI WC.
New Zealand has been one of the most consistent sides when it comes to ICC events ever since the last decade or so. Kiwi fans would be hoping that the fast bowling duo of Tim Southee & Trent Boult can rattle the opposition with their sheer pace & immaculate line & length.
Kane Williamson is progressing really well- Gary Stead
Gary Stead who was having an interaction with the reporters ahead of the England ODI leg. Gary Stead stated that Kane is in the full rehab mode. Gary Stead pointed out that Kane Williamson still has got a lot of work to do to make to the squad.
“We’ve got about two weeks from now until we name that side. Nothing’s changed at the moment, we’re going to give Kane Williamson every chance and use that full amount of time. Kane Williamson is in full rehab mode, he’s back batting in the nets again which is great to see,” said Gary Stead.
“He’s progressing really well, but again there’s a lot of work for him still to do to make sure he gets to where we need him to be. So we’re going to give him the full two weeks to prove where he’s at and for us it’s still a little bit of crystal ball-gazing, where he will be at,” he added.
Steep Road ahead for New Zealand
The Black Caps will have to play out of their skin to outclass England in the T20I series commencing from 30th August. The stand in skipper Tom Latham would be tested against a quality England side who have the knack of peaking at the perfect time.
England don’t have a promising record in ODIs since 2020 i.e. the inception of ODI World Super League. There are chances that England’s management may promote Moeen Ali up the order as the eclectic left handed batter not only has got a wide range of shots but can also surprise the opposition with his brisk strokeplay.