Kane Williamson on road to get fit for WC: Details
What's the story
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead has provided a major update on Kane Williamson's fitness.
Though the NZ skipper has started batting in nets, Stead feels his fitness is not yet up to international standards.
Notably, Williamson is racing against time to get fit for the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup in September-October.
His absence from the tournament can massively dent NZ's chances.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Williamson sustained a knee injury while fielding for Gujarat Titans in the opener of the 2023 Indian Premier League.
He has been out of action since then. The 32-year-old subsequently underwent surgery, having ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament on his right knee.
With the ODI WC being just two months away, the NZ camp would want Williamson to regain fitness sooner than later.
Statement
What did Stead say?
Stead reckons Williamson still needs some more time before returning to international standards.
"It's nice to see him with a bat in his hand and hitting the balls again, albeit it's not right at the level that he is to perform internationally," Stead told reporters.
Stead also revealed that Williamson is heavily 'invested' in the team and is keen to return for the WC.
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How Williamson has fared in ODIs?
Williamson currently owns 6,554 runs from 161 ODIs at an average of 47.83. The tally includes 13 centuries and 42 fifties.
He is NZ's fifth-highest run-getter in the format. Notably, NZ were the runners-up in the last two ODI World Cups (2015 and 2019).
Williamson played an instrumental role in both campaigns. He was adjudged the Player of the Tournament in the 2019 edition.
Stats
Latham to lead in his absence
In case, Williamson does not regain fitness for the WC, Tom Latham, the designated vice-captain of the ODI side, would lead the team.
The wicketkeeper-batter has so far led NZ in 31 ODIs, smoking 1,245 runs at a brilliant average of 47.88.
The tally includes three tons and nine fifties.
Moreover, NZ won 22 ODIs with Latham at the helm (NR: 1).