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New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, has shed light on the possibility of Kane Williamson‘s participation in the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023. Despite a prolonged absence due to a knee injury, the New Zealand camp remain hopeful that the captain will make a comeback for the prestigious tournament. Stead revealed that Williamson will be granted a two-week window to demonstrate his fitness and form.
Notably, Williamson has been sidelined from competitive cricket for nearly five months after sustaining a knee injury during the opening match of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, where he represented the Gujarat Titans (GT). Undergoing surgery for a ruptured ACL, Williamson has steadily worked towards recovery and recently returned to training. He spent time with the national squad in preparation for the tour of England.
Accompanying the New Zealand team to the United Kingdom, Williamson’s presence has been a source of encouragement. In the lead-up to their series against England, New Zealand engaged in two practice T20 matches against county teams. The team is set to contest a 4-match T20I series from August 30, followed by a 4-match ODI series from September 8 to 15.
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Stead’s Insights on Williamson’s Rehabilitation
Coach Stead addressed the media, detailing the ongoing rehabilitation process for Williamson. He emphasized that Williamson’s return to net practice was a promising sign, but there was still considerable work ahead to ensure he reaches the required level of fitness for international competition.
“We got about two weeks from now, until we until we name that side. We’re going to give them every chance and I guess use that full amount of time he’s in full rehab mode. He’s back batting in the nets again, which is great to see. So 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 them to be,” said Stead.
While New Zealand remain hopeful of having their charismatic leader back on the field, Stead acknowledged the possibility that Williamson might not be ready for the initial matches of the World Cup campaign, even if he’s deemed fit and included in the ODI World Cup squad. The delicate balance between expediting his return and ensuring his long-term fitness remains a paramount concern for the team management.
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“There’s a chance that even if Kane was named he may not be available right at the start of the tournament, but he also might be, and he also might not be ready. Yes, of course, we want him at the World Cup. There is that bigger picture in mind though, that we want Kane Williamson fit for the rest of his career. So there’ll be honest conversations that Kane and I will have with each other,”
added Stead
