HAMILTON: New Zealand cricket Kane Williamson has expressed confidence in his recovery from the hamstring injury he sustained during the T20I series against Pakistan last month. He assured that his hamstring has responded well in recent weeks, declaring himself fit for the first Test against South Africa, on February 4 in Mount Maunganui.
He said, “My hamstring has shown significant improvement over the past few weeks. I feel ready and eager to resume training and rejoin the squad.” “The weather conditions have been exceptional, albeit and extremely hot. I am optimistic about my readiness, and I am looking forward to reuniting with the team. I believe everyone is keen to regroup and prepare for the upcoming Test series” he added.
Ahead of the first Test, New Zealand has been contending with several injury concerns. Williamson himself endured a series of setbacks last year, including an ACL rupture at the IPL, a fractured thumb during the ODI World Cup, and a subsequent hamstring strain.
Additionally, fast bowler Kyle Jamieson has been managing a back injury, while wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell is recuperating from a hamstring issue.
Although, Jamieson has resumed competitive cricket, featuring for Canterbury in the Super Smash Eliminator and final, as well as representing New Zealand XI in a tour match against South Africa, Blundell has been sidelined from competitive action for nearly a month.
Despite these challenges, Williamson expressed optimism about New Zealand’s relatively improved injury situation leading into the first Test.
Williamson said that having seen Blundell and Jamieson in the lunchroom, they appeared comfortable and healthy while eating. I believe they are doing well. Obviously, recovery times can differ for each person, and Tom’s hamstring injury, involving the tendon, required a bit more time, he added. “But I believe he’s in good shape and eager to return”, he maintained. “Kyle recently bowled a spell and seemed to do so successfully. Overall, I think everyone is fit and in good health”, he further added.
