‘Yeh banda aaya hi kyu’ – Fans react as Kane Williamson gets ruled out of ODI World Cup 2023 opener against England

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the opening game of the ODI World Cup 2023. Notably, the star batter makes himself unavailable for the clash against England, which is set to take place on October 5 at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahemdabad. Both teams have arrived in the host country, India, and are gearing up for the marquee event.

However, the Black Caps team management has released an official statement that provides fresh updates on Kane Williamson. According to sources, the Kiwi skipper will only bat against Pakistan for their ODI World Cup 2023 warm-up game at Hyderabad on September 29. In addition, the 33-year-old skipper will play in full capacity during their next warm-up game against South Africa.

Meanwhile, New Zealand white-ball coach Gary Stead has also provided the latest updates on his injuries. The former cricketer reveals that the opening batter has been recovering well, and their side is trying to make his successful comeback in international cricket. In addition, the 51-year-old coach highlighted that there is no pressure on him to make his return to the field.

There is no pressure on Kane Williamson to return before he is ready: Gary Stead

“Right from the start we’ve taken a long-term view on Kane’s return to play. His recovery is tracking well and it’s now a matter of making sure he can cope with the rigorous and intensity of international cricket. We’ll continue to take a day by day approach to Kane’s rehabilitation and certainly won’t be putting any pressure on him to return before he is ready,” coach Gary Stead was quoted as saying in the official release.

Notably, the top-order batter sustained injuries during the first game of IPL 2023 when he was playing for the Gujarat Titans against the Chennai Super Kings. Following the same, the star cricketer has missed all the games for his side. However, the selectors have named him as the skipper for the ODI World Cup 2023. Meanwhile, star cricketer Tom Latham will lead the side in his absence during the opening game against the Jos Buttler-led side.

Check out how fans have reacted to this update: