Kane Williamson will return to the New Zealand squad for the upcoming three-test series against England, starting Thursday in Christchurch, after missing the India tour due to a groin strain, coach Gary Stead confirmed on Monday.
Williamson’s comeback is expected to shake up the lineup, as his inclusion will mean dropping one of the batters who contributed to New Zealand’s impressive 3-0 sweep against India earlier this month.
“It’s a nice problem to have,” Stead said. “Kane’s a class player, one of the best in the world, and he will be playing somewhere in the lineup. Tom [Latham] and I need to work out how we shape the rest of the team around him.”
Will Young, who impressed in the number three spot in the India series with 244 runs, is the most likely candidate to make way for Williamson. However, Stead assured that Young remains a valued player.
The coach dismissed speculation about all-rounder Glenn Phillips being dropped, stating, “I don’t think Glenn Phillips will be left out; he’s been superb for us over a number of test matches.”
New Zealand is set to deploy a four-pronged pace attack at Hagley Oval, with either Jacob Duffy or Nathan Smith making their test debut.
“We’re excited to have Kane back with his remarkable record, and we’re focused on putting together the best team to take on England,” Stead added.
