New Zealand skipper Williamson targets World Cup return

Less than six months after knee surgical procedure threatened to rule him out of subsequent month’s ODI World Cup, the objective of captaining New Zealand in India has been the important thing driver in getting Kane Williamson by his restoration.

The 33-year-old tore the cruciate ligament in his proper knee enjoying for Indian Premier League (IPL) aspect Gujarat Titans in April, which regarded to have scuppered his possibilities of making the showpiece event.

However, intense rehab work has meant a speedy restoration.

Williamson hopes to be prepared for the Black Caps opening recreation towards defending champion England on October 5, a repeat of the 2019 remaining his aspect narrowly misplaced.

“It would be great. Naturally, you want to be back playing when you are fit and ready, sooner rather than later,” he mentioned.

“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.”

Williamson is already batting within the nets once more, which the injured knee can deal with.

“For running, it’s not quite 100 percent, but making good progress,” he added.

Black Caps coach Gary Stead mentioned there was no fastened date for when Williamson will play once more.

But his return can be a giant increase. He was participant of the 2019 event with centuries towards South Africa and West Indies in main New Zealand to the cusp of lifting the trophy.

‘Little steps forward’

Williamson, who has chalked up over 6,500 runs in ODI cricket, is determined to seem in a fourth World Cup, admitting the prospect “keeps you in the gym every day and working hard”.

“It’s been really pleasing to see the progress and keep taking those little steps forward,” he added.

While New Zealand has warmed-up for the World Cup with excursions of England and Bangladesh, Williamson’s damage has restricted his preparations.

But he’s not overly involved.

“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,” he mentioned.

“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.”

Despite a burning want to play, the New Zealand skipper mentioned he would haven’t any drawback withdrawing from the squad if the damage flared up.

“I only want to be there if I can add some value and I’m fit and ready to go,” he mentioned,

Williamson already is aware of about spending time on the sidelines after returning final 12 months from a prolonged spell out with an elbow damage.

“Working through injuries are part of the job, so being ready for whatever’s next is the goal,” he mentioned.