Kane Williamson will miss the second and final Test against England, starting 10 June at Edgbaston. New Zealand Cricket decided to rest Williamson for his ‘irritated’ left elbow ahead of the World Test Championship final against India.
New Zealand Men’s Head Coach Gary Stead said it was a tough decision not to have Williamson out but also the right one: ‘He’s had an injection in his elbow to relieve the irritation he’s been experiencing when he bats and a period of rest and rehabilitation will help maximise his recovery.
‘The decision has been made very much with the ICC World Test Championship Final at Southampton in mind and we are confident he will be ready for that match starting on June 18.’
In the pre-match press conference, England captain Joe Root confessed that Williamson will be missed at the second Test: ‘He’s a big gun, No. 1 in the world. He’s one of those players you spend a lot of time thinking about how you’re going to keep him quiet and get rid of him early. It will be a huge loss for them but we're also very respectful that NZ have a strong squad and are involved in the WTC final because they have strength in depth.’
In Williamson’s absence, Tom Latham will lead the Black Caps in the decider. This will be Latham’s third time as a Test captain for the country. Meanwhile, Will Young has been picked to bat at No. 3 to replace Williamson.
The injured Mitchell Santner will also miss the Test match at Edgbaston. However, on the bright side, New Zealand will have Trent Boult.