New Zealand are gearing up to take on Pakistan in one of the most highly-anticipated clashes of the ongoing ODI World Cup on November 4, Saturday.
Meanwhile, right ahead of the big clash, New Zealand's head coach provided a big update on Kane Williamson's comeback.
According to Stead, while Williamson has been slowly integrating back into practice sessions, he continues to experience discomfort in his injured thumb. The batting maestro's uncertain status for the crucial encounter against Pakistan has left everyone in a quandary, given the gravity of the match in determining the course of the World Cup semifinals for both the teams.
Williamson is often referred to as the backbone of the New Zealand and his potential absence looms large, especially as the team navigates the challenges posed by three consecutive World Cup losses.
Gary Stead said, “Kane Williamson had a couple of hits not at full intensity, he’s still getting a little bit of pain through his thumb but he’s improving day by day. We’re hopeful he’ll be alright when we test it out tomorrow when we get to Bangalore."
Williamson had previously made a comeback after recovering from a hip injury that he sustained while playing for the Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2023.
In his return to action in the ongoing ODI World Cup, Williamson showcased his prowess by scoring an unbeaten 78 off 107 balls against Shakib Al Hasan’s team. However, he left the field ‘retired hurt after suffering a thumb injury and since then he hasn't played a single match in the tournament so far.
Meanwhile, with the points table illustrating the tight competition and high stakes, the upcoming match is more than just another game for both teams. Currently teetering at the edge of the top four, Pakistan's decisive win over New Zealand could propel them securely into the semi-final contention. Meanwhile, New Zealand, grappling with recent defeats, too need to win the match to ensure an easy ride into top four.
While Pakistan will be heading into the match with a resounding win over Bangladesh, New Zealand suffered a 190-run defeat at the hands of South Africa in their previous encounter. So far Pakistan have only managed to win just three matches in a total of seven matches, while New Zealand have won four ties so far in the ongoing World Cup.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Semi-final scenarios in 2023 World Cup: Know the complete permutation and combination for all teams
After Glenn Maxwell's injury, another colossal blow for Australia as star all-rounder indefinitely ruled out of World Cup
