Kane Williamson has shared his feelings about New Zealand’s historic Test series win against India in India, naming it among their best cricketing memories. Kane Williamson also admitted to the FOMO (fear of missing out) he experienced after missing the entire series due to a groin injury.
The Kiwis completely outperformed the Indians; making it their first series win in 13 attempts since 1955 and India’s first series loss after 18 series at home. They also became the first Test side to whitewash India at home. Will Young replaced Kane Williamson in the playing 11 and delivered a few match-winning performances under pressure.
It was a lot of internal temptation to go over & play against India – Kane Williamson
Interacting with the media, Williamson expressed how desperate he was to play against India during the series but acknowledged the necessity of taking precautions to fully recover.
“It was a lot of internal temptation [to try and get there], for sure, then after a few discussions it was keep taking that time to get it right so that’s what I did. Suffered a little bit of FOMO, which is a good thing, but just admired it really. To go over and play the way they did, so special, one of our all-time cricketing memories,” the 34-year-old was quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.
He also spoke fondly about his teammate Tim Southee, who has announced his retirement from Tests after playing the upcoming three-match home series against England.
Applauding Southee’s leadership skills and achievements as a bowler, he said,
“Playing so long together, you just go through so much. Both doing stints in leadership roles and you go through different turbulent times, then you have some good ones as well and they are all part of the experience,”
“To do it as long as Tim has is incredible as a fast bowler, there’s not many in the history of the game who have been able to achieve what he has. Such a huge member [and] leader of our side and a close friend as well,”
The first Test between New Zealand and England will commence on November 28 in Christchurch. If the Kiwis win the series 3-0, they will finish on the WTC table with a 64.29% points percentage. While this does not ensure their qualification for the final, it will certainly keep them in the race.