Kane Williamson confirms his return against Bangladesh
Ahead of New Zealand’s ODI World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh at Chennai, New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson said that he will feature in the match at the Chepauk Stadium on Friday, October 13.
While New Zealand have registered two wins in two games so far, beating England and Netherlands by comprehensive margins, Bangladesh have got one win and one loss in the tournament. Williamson missed both the matches due to his recovery from the ACL injury he picked in IPL 2023.
The 33-year-old had sustained a tear in the cruciate ligament of his right knee in the inaugural game of the 2023 season between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings and has been out of action ever since. The right-handed batsman underwent knee surgery and an intensive rehabilitation program to expedite his recuperation and played both of New Zealand’s warm-up matches, scoring an unbeaten 54 and 37 against Pakistan and South Africa before the main round of the tournament.
“Yeah (on if he will play or not). As for my recovery, it has been quite a journey but largely a good one that has had some really good progress and you know I have said a number of times, really excited to be named in the World Cup squad, be sitting here now and really excited at the prospect of tomorrow, which is another big challenge for us,” stated Williamson in the pre-match press conference.
Kane Williamson provides an update on Tim Southee’s return
Addressing the return of the seasoned New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee to the team ahead of the Bangladesh match, Williamson clarified that the pacer won’t be participating in the upcoming game. He also emphasized that despite their recent enjoyable moments, the team must begin anew as they find themselves in a different location with a fresh set of challenges.
“Well, Tim’s progressing well, but would not be playing tomorrow’s game. A new venue, new opposition, as we know, which always happens in world events. And we are looking forward to the challenge,” he said.
