ODI World Cup 2023: Kane Williamson ruled out of New Zealand versus South Africa clash

New Zealand will once again be without the services of their regular captain Kane Williamson for their upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 clash against South Africa in Pune on Wednesday, November 1. The talismanic batter suffered a thumb fracture while being hit by a throw in the game against Bangladesh earlier in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023. Notably, Williamson returned to the nets and batted for the last two days.

However, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) took to their social media to inform that he was not ready to feature in the game against the Proteas. His fitness will be monitored once again prior to the game against Pakistan on Saturday, November 4.

"Kane Williamson has been ruled out of Wednesday’s match against @ProteasMenCSA. Williamson has batted in the nets the last two days but has been ruled out of a return to match action tomorrow. He will be assessed again ahead of the side’s next match against @TheRealPCB. #CWC23," Blackcaps wrote on their 'X' handle.

Kane Williamson has been ruled out of Wednesday’s match against @ProteasMenCSA.

Williamson has batted in the nets the last two days but has been ruled out of a return to match action tomorrow.

He will be assessed again ahead of the side’s next match against @TheRealPCB. #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/c8TIJRe7cT

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 31, 2023

Williamson suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during the Indian Premier League earlier this year and subsequently underwent surgery. He missed New Zealand's first couple of matches in the World Cup but recovered in time to make his much-awaited return against Bangladesh. The 33-year-old scored a 107-ball 78 during the eight-wicket victory for the Kiwis. However, he suffered an unfortunate thumb injury that is continuing to keep him out of the park.

New Zealand, South Africa look to inch closer to semi-final berth of ODI World Cup 2023

South Africa have won five out of the six games they have played in the ODI World Cup 2023. Meanwhile, New Zealand have won four and lost two matches. They are placed in the top four on the points table and the team that comes out on top on November 1 (Wednesday), will be knocking the semi-finals door.

Notably, the Black Caps have a comfortable 6-2 lead in the head-to-head scoreline against the Proteas in the ODI World Cup. However, South Africa lead the overall head-to-head 41-25.

Also Check: ODI World Cup 2023 Points Table