NZ v ENG: New Zealand suffer a huge blow ahead of 2nd ODI

After winning a thriller at Hamilton, the New Zealanders have suffered a huge blow. Their skipper Kane Williamson is a doubtful starter for the second One Day International game against England. The 27-year-old has been suffering from a mild hamstring strain and may well sit out of the next game.

Coach Mike Hesson clarified that Williamson’s participation in the second game was unlikely. If he doesn’t feature, we may well see Tim Southee donning the captaincy honours. The Kiwis have been in sensational form in the ODI format with nine consecutive victories.

We are optimistic regarding Kane’s participation but not sure

Confirming that Williamson was having a mild strain on his hamstring, coach Hesson told that he will undergo a fitness test. While he sounded unsure regarding the skipper’s participation in the second ODI, he instilled faith in the rest of the squad to come up with a compelling performance.

“Kane has a mild hamstring strain. He’ll have to prove his fitness. Make sure he’s 100%. We are optimistic he’ll be fine, but we aren’t sure. It would be a big blow. Kane is a high-quality player, but we have to have confidence in our squad as well.” he was quoted as saying by Give Me Sport.

We know how strong England are, they’ll come back stronger

Mark Chapman who was a part of the T20 tri-series comprising Australia and England is expected to step in Williamson’s absence. Yet to make his debut in the ODI format, Hesson instilled confidence in Chapman to deliver. He also didn’t undermine England and was aware of them coming back strongly in the next game.

“We always want to Kane to play. He’s a quality leader. But your side has to be good enough to deal with things from time to time. Chappy isn’t coming in for his first game – he’s played against these guys a week or so ago. We know how strong England are. They won’t lie down – they’ll come back even stronger.”

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