‘His ability to run between the wickets…’ – New Zealand head coach provides massive update on Kane Williamson’s availability vs Bangladesh

It was a fantastic start for the New Zealand cricket team as they registered a great win against the defending champions in the tournament opener of the ODI World Cup 2023 on October 5 at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, while they beat the Netherlands by 99 runs in their second clash of the marquee event. However, New Zealand white-ball format coach Gary Stead has provided fresh updates on New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson’s availability for their third clash against Bangladesh on October 13.

The former New Zealand star reveals that Kane Williamson is almost recovered now and has been practising hard in the nets. However, the 51-year-old coach gave an indirect hint about not using the top-order batter in the clash against Bangladesh on October 13. Moreover, the former batsman reveals that Williamson can’t get the runs between the wickets owing to his inconsistency in 50 overs of the game. In addition, the Christchurch-born coach expressed happiness as the top-order batsman almost recovered.

“He’s (Williamson) been progressing very very well. He’s had a great last five or six days and went about the fielding aspect of things. That’s the key thing for Kane at the moment. It’s not about his injury so much now, it’s his ability to run between the wickets and to field and to consistently do that over a 50-over game. We’re delighted with where he’s at.

Things are looking good for Kane Williamson to return in this game: Gary Stead

The New Zealand coach reveals that they will check with Kane Williamson after their upcoming two training sessions. Notably, the former right-handed batsman also reveals the injury updates about the great cricketer Tim Southee. Gary Stead confirmed that Tim Southee is fit and available for selection for the rest of the 2023 ODI World Cup.

“We’ve got two more trainings still to get through but at this stage, all things are looking good for Kane to return in this game. But we still say that with an air of caution but we’re pleased with the way he has been coming on. Tim will be available for selection, he’s been tracking well,” he added further.