NEW DELHI: Kane Williamson has been announced as the captain for the upcoming Twenty20 International home series against Pakistan in a welcome development for New Zealand cricket.
The world-class batter had been sidelined due to a knee injury that he sustained nine months ago, causing him to miss last month's ODI and T20 series against Bangladesh.
The 33-year-old successfully underwent rehabilitation and made a comeback during the 50-over World Cup and a two-Test series in Bangladesh. However, as a precautionary measure, Williamson was rested from white-ball commitments last month.
His return to lead the team in the T20 series against Pakistan reflects a controlled approach to his reintegration into the playing XI.
Williamson's careful comeback plan includes a scheduled rest during game three of the five-match series against Pakistan, set to commence on January 12. All-rounder Mitchell Santner will take charge as captain for that particular match in Dunedin.
Devon Conway, the opening batter, is set to make a return to the squad after missing both white-ball series against Bangladesh. Additionally, pace bowlers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson are poised to make their first international appearances since sustaining injuries during the World Cup.
Notably absent from the 15-man squad is all-rounder Rachin Ravindra, who showcased impressive form by scoring 578 runs in a series of breakout innings at the World Cup. Coach Gary Stead clarified that Ravindra is being given a break for his well-being after an intense period of non-stop touring across five countries in the last five months.
Stead emphasized Ravindra's importance to New Zealand Cricket, stating that the young player remains a significant part of their plans, especially for the T20 World Cup in June. Ravindra is expected to return to contention for the T20 series against Australia in February.
New Zealand: Kane Williamson (capt), Devon Conway, Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Ben Sears
(With inputs from AFP)
