ICC World Cup 2023: Kane Williamson's Inclusion In New Zealand's World Cup Squad Confirmed
Published - 05 Sep 2023, 12:21 AM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:18 AM
New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson will be a part of the ICC World Cup 2023 squad, confirmed the NZC on Monday. Williamson has been out of the game since injuring his right knee in the IPL earlier this year.
Since then, he underwent treatment and missed the international season for New Zealand. He was not included in the Kiwi ODI and T20I squads named for the series against England.
“Kane has applied phenomenal dedication to his rehabilitation and has been supported by a strong group of experts around him,” head coach Gary Stead said.
“He’s left no stone unturned in trying to get back playing cricket at the highest level. We are delighted to be in a place to select him. At the same time, he’s also kept perspective about his recovery and hasn’t wanted to rush or force his way back too early. As we’ve previously said, it’s great he wants to play cricket for New Zealand in the long term.”
“As we’ve said throughout this process we want to give Kane every bit of available time to aid his recovery. The World Cup is not a short tournament and we will continue to monitor his progress over the next month ahead of the first tournament match” he further added on Williamson’s recovery.
Also Read: ICC World Cup 2023: Watch – Kane Williamson Starts Batting In Nets After Surgery
Kane Williamson Set To Be Added To New Zealand Squad In ICC World Cup 2023
He underwent surgery on his right knee and has started batting at the nets showing signs of recovery. In April, he underwent surgery as his chances of playing in the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023 looked slim. Earlier reports from New Zealand also suggested that if Kane Williamson fails to recover in time for the World Cup, he is likely to travel with the team to India as a mentor.
“Through this entire process I have tried to keep an open mind on when I might be able to return to cricket and not get too focused on one date or match,” Williamson said. “Being selected doesn’t change that and I know there’s still work to do and day by day goals to tick off to get back on the field with the team.”
New Zealand were the finalists of the 2019 ODI World Cup with England beating them dramatically in the summit clash. Four years later they will have the tough task of making the final again in India. They kick off their campaign facing world champions England on October 5 in Ahmedabad.
