Kane Williamson to Miss England T20Is, Eyes ODI Comeback, NZ Squad Update

By Rohit - Oct 13, 2025 04:53 PM
Last updated on Oct 13, 2025 04:53 PM

Overview

Kane Williamson will miss New Zealand’s T20I series against England but is eyeing a return for the ODI series later this month. The 35-year-old batter, who last played international cricket in the Champions Trophy final against India in March, returned home recently after fulfilling overseas commitments.

Head coach Rob Walter revealed that Williamson has been dealing with a minor medical issue and needs more time to recover before returning to action.

“He’s obviously a world-class player and we’re hoping these two weeks will ensure he’s ready for the ODIs against England and the following tour by West Indies,” said New Zealand coach Rob Walter.

Why Williamson is Missing the T20Is

Williamson, one of New Zealand’s most experienced cricketers, holds a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC). He had earlier opted out of the T20I series against Australia and the Zimbabwe tour to play county cricket and The Hundred with Middlesex. With the upcoming international schedule and his fitness in focus, NZC decided to rest him from the England T20Is to prioritize full recovery for the ODI leg.

Injury Updates and Player Returns

Regular white-ball captain Mitchell Santner makes his return to lead the side after recovering from abdominal surgery. Fast bowler Ben Sears has been ruled out due to a left-hamstring tear sustained in training last week, with an estimated recovery period of three to four weeks.

Allrounder Rachin Ravindra also returns after missing the Australia T20Is due to a facial injury suffered during a fielding session at Bay Oval.

“It’s great to have Mitch back. Alongside being our leader, he’s one of the very best white-ball spinners in the world,” said Walter. “Likewise, it’s nice to welcome back Rachin who was unlucky to miss out on Australia and I know is really excited for this series.”

Unavailable Players

Several key New Zealand players remain unavailable due to injuries, including Finn Allen (foot), Adam Milne (ankle), Will O’Rourke (back), Glenn Phillips (groin), and Lockie Ferguson (hamstring). Despite being New Zealand’s most-capped T20I player, wristspinner Ish Sodhi has not been included in the squad for this series.

Ravindra will act as the third spin-bowling option behind Santner and Michael Bracewell, while Mark Chapman can contribute with part-time left-arm spin if required.

Squad Highlights

The selected T20I squad offers a balanced mix of youth and experience. Jimmy Neesham retains his spot after a strong showing against Australia, where he picked up 4 for 26 in the third T20I at Mount Maunganui. The veteran allrounder remains focused on his goal of representing New Zealand in the 2026 T20 World Cup.

“I want to win a World Cup for New Zealand and that’s the reason I’m still playing and available,” Neesham said. “It’s a very, very clear goal of mine. What happens with selection leading up to the tournament is up to the powers above me.”

Series Schedule

The three-match T20I series against England will begin on October 18 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, followed by the second match at the same venue on October 20. The final T20I will be played in Auckland. The ODI series will run from October 26 to November 1, with the first ODI scheduled at Bay Oval — where Williamson could make his comeback.

Impact on New Zealand’s Campaign

Williamson’s absence will be felt in New Zealand’s batting lineup, but Santner’s return as captain and Ravindra’s inclusion bolster both leadership and balance. The Kiwis will rely on their experienced core, including Daryl Mitchell, Conway, and Neesham, to step up as they fine-tune preparations for the upcoming white-ball season and the next ICC events.

New Zealand T20I Squad

Mitchell Santner (capt), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Tim Seifert (wk)

Source: New Zealand Cricket (NZC) | Coverage by Possible11

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