New Delhi: Kane Williamson is expected to be fit and in the New Zealand team for their first Test against England that begins on November 28, says coach Gary Stead.
The first match of New Zealand’s home series against England begins at the at Hagley Oval in Christchurch where Williamson could return to the team after a groin inury in their Sri Lanka tour, before their three-match series against India.
The 34-year-old wasn’t risked in the team for the third Test against India in Mumbai as the Kiwis have already won the series with victories in Bengaluru and Pune.
When asked about chances of Williamson playing in the first Test against England, Stead said: “Yeah, very confident.”
“I mean at a push we could have got him over here [in India] immediately, but considering I guess the travel factor and making sure that you can actually recover properly when you get here, we didn’t feel though that was worth the risk.
“So we’re happy with having him ready and very, very confident he’ll be right for that first Test versus England.”
New Zealand won their maiden Test series in India despite the absence of Williamson with Will Younf impressing as a No.3 batter. Young batted with grit and determination and looked comfortable in the challengeing conditions of Bengalru and Pune.
Stead hopes WIlliamson would return with full vigour after the injury lay-off as he got ample time to prepare himself.
“Look, it’s always disappointing when he’s not over here with us,” he said.
“I mean, he’s New Zealand’s greatest Test run-scorer for a reason, and I think whenever you have Kane in your side, it looks a stronger side. But the guys have gone really well.
“We’ve adapted well without him here. The best thing for Kane is just to get himself completely right for England and we’re certainly looking forward to him coming back and hopefully making a difference in that Test series over there for us.”
New Zealand have retained their chances qualifying for the World Test Championship final after winning the Indian series but must win all their four games (one against India and three against England).
