Discussions over his availability for the rest of the home summer are still going on, according to experienced New Zealand batsman Kane Williamson, ahead of his much anticipated return to international cricket in the forthcoming ODIs against England. At the same time, Williamson said he was thrilled to be back in the national lineup for the first time since the Champions Trophy in 2025.
The veteran hitter had chosen not to participate in the three-match T20I series against Australia since he was now under a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC). In addition, he skipped the most recent tour of Zimbabwe in order to prepare for his international return by concentrating on county cricket in England and playing in The Hundred.
“I’m thankful for the constant communication with Rob (Walter, head coach) and New Zealand cricket.” For me, it’s all about striking a careful balance between spending time with family and other commitments and taking time off, as well as remaining a member of this team that I have truly loved and cherished for a very long time. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) released a video on Friday that included Williamson saying, “It’s great to be back and among the one-dayers and we’ll just keep sort of assessing what’s next as we go.”
The balance between where you spend your time and where you give your attention is really, extremely important to me, especially since your life circumstances changes as mine did, and I am immensely grateful for that as well. I have three young children. Being able to play for New Zealand and compete at the top level in my favorite sport is fantastic, but for me, balance is the most crucial factor,” he continued.
He stated that he always aims to get better and loves trying out new cricket formats, which is why he is determined to keep playing the game. It feels amazing to be back in the BlackCaps dugout, Williamson said, appearing excited upon his return to international competition.
As a young player or schoolchild, it was always the same thing: you just worked hard at your game, you always tried to get better, and that’s kind of not changed. I still love the game, and I have a strong desire to improve, train hard, and contribute anything I can for the team. It’s been a big part of my life for more than 15 years, and we’ve gone through a lot together. There have also been a lot of changes, including, I suppose, a new head coach and some new players who have been the team’s leaders for a number of years. You just have to go through that journey and all these different places,” Williamson said.
Still, I’ve really enjoyed playing with and being a part of this group of people who are genuinely dedicated to the team and to one another. After what has transpired since Champions Trophy, I’m excited to rejoin the group. It’s a unique location that we want to make sure stays that way, including the surroundings. That’s great to be back with a different bunch,” he continued.
Looking not too far ahead: Williamson
The Wellington native emphasized the need of taking things one stride at a time, despite the 2027 ODI World Cup drawing near. He stated that even though he enjoys playing Test cricket, he had to wait and comply with the team’s demands. The professional hitter went on to say that he considers it a unique honor to be a member of the national squad and that he is eager to help wherever he can.
Williamson stated, “I’m not (looking) too far ahead, but I suppose in the back of my mind there’s probably the ODI World Cup and there’s always other things. Test cricket is also pretty dear to me, so really it’s a little bit about what I want and a little bit more about what the team wants and where it’s going and what we’re sort of buying into.”
Just having those channels of communication open, as I mentioned before, will help to ensure that we are pleasant, focused, and clear about what it looks like. But also showing a certain amount of respect for the fact that this is a team in a unique environment and that they are constantly working to achieve something. Therefore, for me at this stage of my career, it’s awesome if I can contribute to it,” Williamson continued.
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