Gary Stead Content With Kane Williamson Missing A Few Games Due To Paternity Leave

New Zealand coach Gary Stead has expressed lenience on the part of Kane Williamson if he happens to miss matches due to paternity leave. Kane Williamson, the New Zealand captain in all the formats, could skip some games in their home season as he and Sarah expect the birth of their first child later this month. Gary Stead believes that as a parent, one should not miss the birth of their first child.

Kane Williamson, who was rested for the T20 series against the West Indies due to his IPL commitments, scored a double-century in the first Test against them. The 29-year old crafted a mammoth knock of 251 at the Seddon Park in Hamilton that led New Zealand to 519 in the first innings. And it handed them a victory by an innings and 134 runs to take an early lead.

Gary Stead claimed that the worst-case scenario is that Kane Williamson could miss a few matches; however, as a parent, one should not miss the birth of their first child and understands it’s essential for him too. Stead added that while they are professional cricketers, a family is equally vital and such moments are as well.

“Worst case scenario, Kane misses some matches. As a dad, as a parent, you only get that opportunity once in your life to be there for your (first) child’s birth and I know that it’s important for Kane too. At the end of the day, we play cricket, and other things are much more important. And that is much more important,” Stead said as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.

Kane’s innings was obviously very special: Gary Stead

The 48-year old termed Williamson’s innings as a special one, which had skill, patience, and temperament. Stead also credited the players, who hung around their captain to build partnerships that propelled the hosts to a massive score.

“Kane’s innings was obviously very special. I think he showed his skill, his temperament, his patience all in one innings. Our partnerships the guys built around with Kane was the reason we got up to the score we did and put us in a position of strength,” he added.

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