Kane Williamson returns to New Zealand T20I squad for India series

Skipper Kane Williamson is set to make his comeback in the shortest format of the game for New Zealand, returning to the squad for the 5-match series against India. Williamson missed the series against England due to a hip injury but will now look forward to some much-needed match-practice ahead of the T20I World Cup.

New Zealand have also included pacer Hamish Bennett. His inclusion comes in the absence of Trent Boult and Lockie Ferguson who are both nursing their injuries which they sustained during the Australian tour. Bennett has played 16 ODIs for the Kiwis but is yet to feature in the shortest format of the game.

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On his inclusion, chief selector Gavin Larsen said:

“We’re delighted to have Hamish back in the fold for what will be a huge series against India. Over the past few seasons, he’s consistently been one of the top domestic white-ball bowlers and we’ve been impressed how he’s been able to evolve his game. We all know he brings good pace and bounce but it’s the clever variations he’s added that make him such a well-rounded T20 bowler.”

The selectors have also filled up the squad with multiple all-round options in order to lend balance to the side. Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham and Scott Kuggeleijn are all included and will have a major role to play. Martin Guptill, Ross Taylor, Colin Munro and skipper Williamson will lend experience to the batting order. Tim Southee will lead the bowling attack with so many vital figures missing through injury.

The 5-match series against India will start in Auckland on January 24th and conclude on February 2nd in Mount Maunganui.

New Zealand T20I squad: Kane Williamson (c), Hamish Bennett, Tom Bruce, Colin de Grandhomme, Martin Guptill, Scott Kuggeleijn, Daryl Mitchell, Colin Munro, Ross Taylor, Blair Tickner, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee