Kane Williamson Rejoins New Zealand Squad, Reflects On Team’s Evolution

Kane Williamson has rejoined the New Zealand squad ahead of the 3-match ODI series with England. He is looking forward to representing the Kiwis who are currently under a bit of pressure. New Zealand lost the T20I series against England by a margin of 1-0, as the first and third game of the series was washed out due to rain.

Williamson has not played for New Zealand since the Champions Trophy final in March. He didn’t feature in the recently concluded T20I series against England as well. As per sources, the former captain was sidelined due to an unspecified medical condition that required some time for recovery.

Now that he is back with the ODI squad, there is a hunger in the former captain to represent his home team once again. He is looking forward to the challenge, saying that the group is currently going through a period of transition.

"It's nice to be back amongst the group. There's been quite a bit of change since the last time I was here, so it's nice to meet the new coach and some new players as well. And I'm looking forward to the start of the series," said Kane Williamson.

The star batter from New Zealand spent much of his recent time in England, where he represented London Spirit in The Hundred. Williamson currently has a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket, which means he can choose which series he wants to play for the national team.

Linking up with the ODI squad for the England series, Kane Williamson has reiterated his commitment to international cricket. He said that he is in constant communication with New Zealand Cricket to decide how he wants to maintain a balance between his international career and personal life.

"It's just an ongoing communication with New Zealand Cricket and with Rob, and I'm grateful for that. It's a lot about the balance, with family and time away, but also the delicate balance of being a part of this team that I've really loved and enjoyed for such a long period of time,” said Kane Williamson.

He further elaborated on the importance of keeping balance in life. He said that playing for New Zealand remains his top priority, but with three children, he also needs to manage his family time wisely.

"Your life situation changes, as mine has, and I'm incredibly grateful as well for that. With three young children, the balance between where you spend your time and [who] give you attention [to] is really important to me. Still being able to play for New Zealand, and play the sport that I love at the highest level, is great, but the balance is the most important thing for me.” said Kane Williamson.

Speaking about test cricket, Kane Williamson said that he still wants to play the format in the near future. It is something very close to him, as the format has always allowed him to showcase his skills to the world in the best possible way.

"There's always other things. Test cricket is pretty dear to me as well. So 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 buying into,” said Kane Williamson.

He further said that his communication with NZC will always remain clear and focused. He respects everyone’s opinions, so if his services are still required by the team, he is open to offering whatever is needed.

"We'll keep those lines of communication open to make sure that we're focused and clear on what it looks like. I'm respectful of the fact that this is a team and a special place, and that they're always trying to build towards something. For me, in this phase of my career, if I'm there and able to add to it, then brilliant," said Kane Williamson.

The upcoming ODI series against England will be the first home assignment of Williamson after a long period of time. It would be interesting to see how he’ll make a comeback in this series, as his services in batting are considered highly important for the team.