Kane Williamson returns to New Zealand team, says, ‘It’s nice to be…’
GH News October 25, 2025 04:06 PM

New Delhi: Kane Williamson stated that he is still committed to representing New Zealand and is keeping an eye on the next ODI World Cup in 2027. However he admitted that his life priorities have changed as he prepares to play for his country for the first time since the Champions Trophy final in March.
Williamson 35 was recovering from a medical condition when he missed last weeks three-match T20I series against England. Now he is back in the team for the ODI series which is scheduled to start on Sunday at Mount Maunganui.
Kane Williamson said its nice to be back
Its nice to be back amongst the group Williamson told NZC after linking up with a squad that is now coached by Rob Walter following Gary Steads departure in the off-season. Theres been quite a bit of change since the last time I was here so its nice to meet the new coach and some new players as well. And Im looking forward to the start of the series.
Williamson spent a large part of New Zealands winter in England playing on an extended contract with Hundred franchise London Spirit which also included a multi-format stint with Middlesex. As one of several senior players on a flexible contract with NZC he skipped New Zealand’s tour of Zimbabwe to honour that deal and also opted out of this month’s early-season T20Is against Australia.
Williamson reaffirmed his commitment to playing cricket for his country
Williamson acknowledged that his inclusion in New Zealands teams cannot be purely based on personal preference but he reaffirmed his commitment to playing cricket for his country.
Its just an ongoing communication with New Zealand Cricket and with Rob and Im grateful for that he said. Its a lot about the balance with family and time away but also the delicate balance of being a part of this team that Ive really loved and enjoyed for such a long period of time.
Your life situation changes as mine has and Im incredibly grateful as well for that he added. With three young children the balance between where you spend your time and [who] give your attention [to] is really important to me. Still being able to play for New Zealand and play the sport that I love at the highest level is great but the balance is the most important thing for me.
I still love the game. I still have a strong desire to get better and train hard and offer whatever I can for the team. Its been a huge part of my life for 15-plus years weve been through a lot as a group and a number of transitions. But Ive just loved playing with a bunch of people that are really committed to each other and to the team.
Williamson eyes 2027 World Cup as ultimate goal
New Zealands journey to the Champions Trophy final reflected their consistent performance in ICC events throughout Williamson’s career. When asked about his remaining goals he admitted that the 2027 ODI World Cup set to take place in Southern Africa in two years was still at the back of my mind.
Theres always other things he added. Test cricket is pretty dear to me as well. So its a little bit about what I want and little bit more about what the team wants and where its going and what were buying into.
Well keep those lines of communication open to make sure that were focused and clear on what it looks like he added. Im respectful of the fact that this is a team and a special place and that theyre always trying to build towards something. For me in this phase of my career if Im there and able to add to it then brilliant.