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Veteran batter Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the upcoming home T20I series against England as he continues to recover from a minor medical issue, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed on Sunday.
The 35-year-old, who last represented the Black Caps in the Champions Trophy final against India in March, is expected to be available for the subsequent ODI series against the same opposition later this month.
Williamson, currently on a casual NZC contract, had earlier opted out of the T20I series against Australia and the Zimbabwe tour to fulfil county commitments with Middlesex in The Hundred.
Head coach Rob Walter revealed that Williamson’s recovery required a bit more time, emphasizing that the decision was precautionary.
“He’s obviously a world-class player, and we’re hoping these two weeks will ensure he’s ready for the ODIs against England and the following tour by the West Indies,” Walter said in a statement.
In Williamson’s absence, Mitchell Santner returns from abdominal surgery to lead the side.
However, New Zealand have been dealt a fresh setback with fast bowler Ben Sears ruled out due to a left hamstring tear sustained in training. Sears is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks.
Rachin Ravindra, who missed the T20I series against Australia after suffering a facial injury during fielding practice, makes his comeback.
New Zealand’s injury list remains lengthy, with Finn Allen (foot), Adam Milne (ankle), Will O’Rourke (back), Glenn Phillips (groin), and Lockie Ferguson (hamstring) all unavailable.
With wristspinner Ish Sodhi missing out, Ravindra joins Santner and Michael Bracewell as part of the spin trio. Mark Chapman could also offer part-time left-arm spin if required.
Walter praised Santner’s leadership and welcomed Ravindra’s return.
“It’s great to have Mitch back. He’s not only our leader but also one of the best white-ball spinners in the world. Likewise, it’s nice to welcome back Rachin, who was unlucky to miss out on Australia and is really excited for this series,” he said.
Veteran allrounder Jimmy Neesham, who recently turned 35, keeps his spot after impressing with figures of 4 for 26 in the third T20I against Australia.
Neesham reiterated his ambition to represent New Zealand at the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
“I want to win a World Cup for New Zealand, and that’s the reason I’m still playing,” Neesham said. “Selection ahead of the tournament is out of my hands, but I’ll stay ready and perform when called upon.”
The three-match T20I series against England begins at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, on October 18, with the second fixture at the same venue on October 20.
The final match will be played in Auckland, followed by the ODI series from October 26 to November 1, where Williamson could mark his return at his home ground, Bay Oval.
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Tim Seifert (wk).
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