IN THE NEW WAVE
The new direction of cricket © Getty
New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson said cricket’s landscape is changing quickly and there is work to be done in order to strike a balance between players opting to play for various T20 leagues and national duty.
Last month, New Zealand’s premier pace bowler, Trent Boult, was released from his national contract after he made the request so that he can spend more time with his family and make himself available for domestic leagues around the world. Subsequently, New Zealand all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme decided to retire from international cricket, and was picked up by the BBL franchise Adelaide Strikers in the draft process. On the other hand, Boult will play for Melbourne Stars in the BBL.
“It’s a tricky one because it is changing. So much seems to have happened so quickly,” Williamson told reporters. “It does seem to be a movement in the landscape of the game. Every case is unique and every case has got their individual needs at different stages of their lives. There are a lot of different franchise events happening and seeing players make decisions on their playing careers… suggests that there is a balance to strike and some things to work through.”
Williamson, who has struggled with injuries including a long-term elbow problem, however, reiterated his commitment to New Zealand cricket. Incidentally, the New Zealand skipper has played in only three ODIs since the iconic 2019 World Cup final at Lord’s. He was a part of the recently-concluded limited overs series against the West Indies but didn’t play in the last two ODIs of the three-match series because of a quad injury.
“At the moment I’m very much here and looking to do my very best for the team. I love being involved in this environment. It’s nice to have those 10 days at home and the body is feeling good. It’s nice to be training fully and batting for long periods in the nets.”
The Williamson-led New Zealand side will look to end their 13-year barren run in the 50-over format in Australia when they take on the hosts in the first ODI of the three-match series at the Cazaly’s Stadium in Cairns.
© Cricbuzz