New Zealand‘s head coach, Gary Stead, is optimistic about Kane Williamson‘s fitness for the upcoming series-opening Test against South Africa in Mt. Maunganui. Williamson had to withdraw from the T20I series against Pakistan due to a slight hamstring strain.
Stead stated, “I’m confident he will be alright. He’s probably got another day or two before he starts back into training and it was a minor niggle, which is a good thing.”
He emphasized Williamson’s importance, saying, “He’s obviously a key player and we know that and we want to make sure we’ve given him every chance of being available.”
Stead acknowledged the challenge South Africa would pose, noting, “They will have a point to prove as well – ‘Hey! we should be here’ – and I think that makes them as dangerous as having a full side here.”
Speaking about Trent Boult’s future involvement, Stead mentioned plans to discuss Boult’s return. He said, “Trent and I are going to have a conversation this week just around the future and what that looks like for him and where it fits for us as well.”
Stead praised New Zealand’s bowling unit, stating, “The bowling group has been excellent throughout.” He added, “I think the bowling has been very good; they’ve been accurate and they’ve been demanding. They’ve put a lot of pressure on Pakistan.”
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