X-ray confirms fracture to Kane Williamson’s left thumb, NZ cricket prepare star wicket-keeper batter as cover for ODI World Cup 2023

The New Zealand team suffered the biggest setback as skipper Kane Williamson sustained a thumb injury in the ODI World Cup 2023 clash against Bangladesh on October 13 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Notably, the top-order batsman has appeared in the first game of the ODI World Cup 2023 against Bangladesh following his injury in the first game of the IPL 2023.

The 2022 WTC Final-winning skipper struck out a fabulous half-century in the ODI World Cup 2023 warm-up game against Pakistan, whereas the star cricketer played the scintillating knock of 78 runs against the Shakib-Al-Hasan-led side in their third game of the marquee event.

Meanwhile, New Zealand white ball format coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment following Kane Williamson’s thumb injury. The former New Zealand star was unhappy that, after recovering from a knee injury, Kane Williamson again got the thumb fracture. In addition, the former batsman has affirmed that the opening star was very important for their side; however, they will be looking to make his return soon.

Kane Williamson is a massive part of our side and a world-class player: Gary Stead

“Firstly, we’re all feeling for Kane to have this occur after all his hard work to return from his knee injury. While it’s disappointing news, the initial diagnosis has given us some optimism he can still feature later in the pool play following a period of rest and rehabilitation. Kane is a massive part of our side and a world-class player and captain – so we’ll look to give him every opportunity we can to return in the tournament,” Coach Gary Stead said.

Notably, the Black Caps have called Tom Blundell as his replacement for the rest of the games. The news has been confirmed by New Zealand coach Gary Stead. The Christchurch-born coach feels that Tom Blundell’s inclusion in the squad is a bonus for their side owing to his batting and wicket-keeping skills.

“Tom’s been with the one-day side on tours to Pakistan and Bangladesh and performed well. He covers multiple positions in the batting order and his wicket-keeping skills are also a bonus as a back-up,” he added further.