Watch: Kane Williamson reaches New Zealand, walks with help of crutches at airport after getting ruled out of IPL 2023

New Zealand limited-overs skipper Kane Williamson has reached home after getting ruled out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 due to a knee injury in the tournament opener.

SportsTak

• Tue • 04 Apr 2023

New Zealand limited-overs skipper Kane Williamson has reached home after getting ruled out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 due to a knee injury in the tournament opener. In the video, Williamson can be seen walking with the help of crutches at the airport.

“It’s not too painful at the moment,” the Gujarat Titans (GT) batter was quoted as saying by Newshub. Before leaving for New Zealand, Williamson had shared a message for his teammates.

“Unfortunately, a brief visit but a really enjoyable one and great to be a part of this group. It’s really good energy in the team and I’m sure they’ll be really excited to get stuck into the season. Obviously, a great start getting a win in their first game.

“I’ll very much miss the team. It’s been a really enjoyable few days getting to know each other and all the preparation and bits and pieces that go into a tournament. So yeah, gutted to not be a part of it. But you know, it a fantastic group and they’ll box on for sure and they are playing some really good cricket,” the 32-year-old said in a video shared by defending champions on social media handles.

The incident took place in the 13th over of Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) innings. On-debut Ireland pacer Joshua Little bowled a slower length ball. CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad flicked it towards mid-wicket boundary where Williamson was stationed.

Williamson jumped in the air and caught hold of the ball. As he was bound to go over the boundary, he flicked the ball back into the option before it touch the boundary ropes. Williamson landed on his right knee and immediately collapsed on the ground. He held his right knee and got medical attention as GT physio rushed to their overseas recruit’s aid.

Williamson did not take further part in the game. B Sai Sudharsan, became Hardik Pandya-led GT’s first ever impact player. He walked out to bat at no.3. The 21-year-old scored 22 runs from 17 balls including three fours. He shared a crucial 53-run partnership for the second wicket from 34 deliveries in the run chase.