Kane Williamson wants to utilize the largest platform for New Zealand to show the world how far they have come in the preparations to take his team towards the first-ever ICC World Test Championship Final.
Kane Williamson About New Zealand Team
As per 2013, ICC test rankings the black caps were in eighth place, since then they were been on the rise ever and had a victory against England earlier, this ensures that they were the number-one team in the five-day format to enter the WTC Final against India.
Since the start of the opening WTC in 2019, New Zealand has improved with each series and Williamson is enthusiastic about bringing his squad the best for the “incredible” opportunity at the Southampton Rose Bowl.
“There’s been a lot of growth over a period of time with so many challenges along the way every day but the team has bought into it and tried to move past those with a good attitude,” explained the Black Caps captain.
“There is a lot of hard work done over a long period of time to find ourselves here in the first final (of the WTC).
“It’s exciting but for us, it’s just focusing on continuing that growth and trying to keep committing to the parts of our game that give us the best chance and that’s where I know the guys will be focusing on.
Kane Williamson is looking forward to the WTC Final against India
“We’re playing the best team in the world. It’s a really exciting occasion. It’s incredible.
“You have both teams coming to a neutral venue – it’s unique, an exciting occasion that both teams are looking forward to starting.
“It’s a one-off and in cricket, anything can happen. It will be widely followed and fans from more than just New Zealand and India are excited to watch it unfold. We’re just fortunate to be involved in it.”
Williamson was forced to miss the second Test against England due to an injured elbow, but he believes he is ready to play in the WTC final, and he has a fully-fit playing group to decide from.
“Everybody is fit in the squad, which is a good thing. My elbow has improved, with the help of an injection a few days back, which has been nice,” he added.
“I’m still managing it but all in all, it’s certainly showing signs of improvement, which is good.”
After just finishing a Test series against England, New Zealand will be familiar with the pitch and weather conditions that will be useful for the WTC Final.
Also read: WTC Final: ‘This Time It’s Shami Who Cleans Up Watling’, In The First Session of Day-5
