New Zealand Coach Confident of Williamson’s Return for England Test
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead is “very confident” that star batsman Kane Williamson will be available for the first Test against England, which is scheduled to be played at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch from November 28 to December 2.
Williamson, 34, had suffered a groin injury during the team’s tour of Sri Lanka last month, just before the start of the three-match Test series in India. As a precautionary measure, the New Zealand team management decided not to rush Williamson’s return for the upcoming Mumbai Test, which begins on Friday.
“At a push, we could have got him over here [in India] immediately, but considering the travel factor and making sure he can recover properly, we didn’t feel that was worth the risk,” Stead said. “We’re happy to have him ready and very, very confident he’ll be right for that first Test versus England.”
Despite Williamson’s absence, New Zealand managed to secure their first-ever Test series win in India, with Will Young stepping up to the challenge and performing well in Williamson’s usual No. 3 spot.
“It’s always disappointing when he’s not over here with us,” Stead acknowledged. “But the guys have adapted well without him, and we’re certainly looking forward to him coming back and hopefully making a difference in that Test series against England.”
However, the news is not as positive for tearaway quick Ben Sears, who is set to miss the three-match Test series against England due to a knee injury. Sears underwent a minor surgery on Wednesday and is expected to return to action by Christmas.
Stead’s confidence in Williamson’s availability for the England series is a positive sign for New Zealand, as they aim to build on their recent success and secure a spot in the World Test Championship final.
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