Last Update on: September 26th, 2023 at 11:11 am
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson expressed his desire to return to playing during the upcoming ODI World Cup, which is scheduled to begin on October 5. Kane Williamson stated that he is currently focusing on rehabilitation without setting unrealistic targets.
Kane Williamson was named in the 15-member squad for the World Cup after a prolonged injury layoff. The 33-year-old made a remarkable recovery from a knee injury sustained during the IPL earlier this year. He is set to lead the Black Caps during the World Cup.
It Would Be Great – Kane Williamson
Kane Williamson expressed his hope to achieve full fitness before their first match in the World Cup against defending champions England.
“It would be great. Naturally, you want to be back playing when you are fit and ready, sooner rather than later,” Williamson said.
“You hope that ends up being around that World Cup time, but I’m still being very focused on the rehab day-to-day and not wanting those targets to stretch it to a point where you take a backward step.”
The Kane Williamson-led team will begin their campaign against England at the world’s largest stadium, Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, on October 5.
It Isn’t Ideal – Kane Williamson
Kane Williamson acknowledged that his injury layoff isn’t ideal but expressed excitement about the prospect of playing in another World Cup. He emphasized that he wants to contribute to the team when he returns to the field, rather than rushing his recovery.
“Naturally, it isn’t ideal, but I didn’t get too much of a say in it. It’s the only option I have in front of me and the prospect of playing another World Cup is really, really exciting.”
“It’s something you always want to be a part of but I didn’t want that to dictate my rehab. At the same time, having a carrot at the back of your mind is helpful.”
“I only want to be there if I can add some value and I’m fit and ready to go. Working through injuries are part of the job, so being ready for whatever’s next is the goal,” he concluded.
New Zealand World Cup Squad: Kane Williamson (c), Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Will Young
