New Delhi: New Zealand are considering adding captain Kane Williamson to their squad for the ICC World Cup in India in October, but he will miss the opening game as he recovers from a knee injury.
Kane Williamson injury in IPL
Williamson tore his cruciate ligament in his right knee in April’s Indian Premier League and will be watching New Zealand in a series against England ahead of the 50-over World Cup to closely monitor his recovery.
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New Zealand preparing for WC
New Zealand are just over 50 days away from opening their World Cup against England on 5 October. Blackcaps manager Gary Stead says New Zealand will give Williamson every chance to show he’s fit.
“I made it clear to him that Kane is working on a day-by-day, week-by-week process and we are not thinking too far ahead,” Stead said. “He made the progress we wanted and maybe even more,” he said.
Williamson crucial injury
“But cruciate ligament injuries can be difficult and it varies from person to person. We plan to consult as many medical professionals as possible about Kane so that we can make this decision within three weeks,” Stead said if Williamson continues to show encouraging signs of recovery, New Zealand will consider including him in the World Cup squad, even if he is unable to play immediately.
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The team is due to be named in mid-September, and Williamson has a tough deadline to convince New Zealand’s medical staff that he is healthy. “It’s something we’re talking about,” Stead said of Williamson’s choice, even if he had to miss the game.
“When it comes to the knockout rounds, it might be too late because we might not be there, but if it’s early in the World Cup, we would definitely consider it,” Stead added.
Williamson seen practicing
Williamson recently posted a video of him throwing himself online, sparking anticipation among his fans. “He hasn’t played a bowler yet, but basically he’s doing everything else,” Stead said. “As for the knee, just watch how it twists.
Kane Williamson has joined New Zealand team and he is batting in the nets.
Good news for cricket fans! pic.twitter.com/FHNcgslrbl
— CricketMAN2 (@ImTanujSingh) August 4, 2023
“I couldn’t ask for more from him in this field. It’s encouraging to see where he is and how he’s doing, but that doesn’t guarantee he’ll be in the World Cup squad,” he signed off.
