Stead on Williamson’s selection for the World Cup: “We are going to give him every chance”

The potential for Kane Williamson to play in the future 2023 ODI World Cup is still very much alive. The management will allow the captain the following two weeks to demonstrate his fitness and make the team, according to New Zealand head coach Gary Stead.

Williamson required emergency surgery after sustaining an ACL tear in his right knee during the first IPL match of the season on March 31.

The 33-year-old is currently recovering and practicing his batting again, but he has toned down his hopes of competing in this year’s championship match in India in October or November.

Williamson’s quick recuperation has gained greater confidence from Stead, who earlier in April declared that he would take an ineligible Williamson to the World Cup as team mentor if necessary.

The time until we name that side is “about two weeks from now,” according to Stead. “[We] are going to give him every opportunity and make full use of that time.”

Williamson’s recuperation, which has seen him score, is also doing well, although Stead acknowledged that there is still “a lot of work” to be done before deciding whether to choose him for the World Cup. Williamson might not be physically ready to play in the tournament’s opening round, according to Stead, even if he makes the final roster.

He is fully engaged in his rehabilitation, and it is wonderful to see him batting in the nets once more. Although he is making great progress, he still has a lot of work to do before he is where we need him to be. They are all the factors we are now debating. Even if Kane were selected, there’s a potential he wouldn’t be available at the start of the competition. He said, “But he might also be, and he might also not be ready.

Stead said that before making any calls about Williamson’s inclusion in the World Cup squad, he is prepared to have “honest conversations” with him.

“Where he will be at is still a little bit of a crystal ball projection. Yes, of course, we want him to compete at the World Cup, but we also have Kane Williamson’s future professional goals in mind. It will be open and honest discussions between Kane and I about his current situation in order to ensure the greatest possible conclusion for our squad as well as for Kane Williamson and his long-term future.

On October 5, New Zealand will play host to the 2023 World Cup in Ahmedabad against the reigning champions, England.