'Bounce back stronger, get well soon' - Babar Azam wishes Kane Williamson speedy recovery

Kane Williamson's IPL 2023 campaign came to an abrupt halt after the star Kiwi batter injured his right knee while attempting a catch in the curtain raiser of the 16th edition of the tournament. The severity of his injury not only ruled him out of the ongoing tournament but has also cast a doubt on his participation in the 50-over World Cup later this year. Pakistani skipper Babar Azam tweeted in support of the Kiwi ace after his unfortunate injury.

Gujarat Titans acquired the services of the former Sunrisers Hyderabad skipper at the IPL 2023 auction, a signing hailed as a shrewd piece of business by the reigning champions. However, Williamson injured his right knee while attempting a catch against Chennai Super Kings in the first match of the tournament. The Kiwi winced in pain clutching his right knee and took no further part in the contest.

Upon further assessment of his injury, the 32-year-old is expected to undergo surgery on his knee in the upcoming weeks. Reports suggest that the Kiwi star is unlikely to feature for the Blackcaps in the World Cup, a big blow for the losing finalists of 2019. Pakistani skipper Babar Azam displayed great camaraderie as he wished the injured Kiwi batter a speedy recovery via his official Twitter handle.

Babar Azam@babarazam258

Bounce back stronger. Get well soon Kane Williamson

11:27 PM · Apr 06, 2023

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This is not the first time that the Pakistani ace has lent his support to a fellow cricketer as he had posted a similar message for former Indian skipper Virat Kohli during the latter's prolonged lean run with the bat. Babar, who was rested for Pakistan's T20I series against Afghanistan, has been named in his side's T20I and ODI series against the Kiwis at home, commencing on April 14. Meanwhile, Tom Latham will lead the visiting New Zealand side in the absence of several senior players.