Kane Williamson injury update: New Zealand skipper 'NOT YET' ruled out of World Cup

Kane Williamson, the captain of New Zealand, is on the heal with the World Cup less than two months away. Previously, it was thought that the Kiwi cricketer would be unable to compete in the big event owing to an injury incurred in the opening game of the Indian Premier League (IPL) while playing for Gujarat Titans.

However, when the New Zealand team for the England One-Day Internationals was revealed, it was confirmed that Williamson will be part of the squad and continue his recovery for his knee injury.

Head coach Gary Stead is optimistic about his captain's rehabilitation, but it is too early to tell whether he will make the World Cup team. However, Williamson has around 45 days to ensure that he is fit at least for the huge tournament in India.

The team for the showpiece event must be announced by September 5, although any number of changes can be made by September 27.

"We will take every precaution to ensure that we get the right medical advice and that he is where we want him to be before we make the decision on whether he goes [to India for the World Cup] or not."

"It's too early to tell," Stead stated on naming the ODI team for the match against England.

Meanwhile, Gary Stead has not ruled out Kane Williamson's return during the World Cup's league stage matches, stating that if he is available during the second half of the tournament, but not directly in the knockouts if they qualify, the board will definitely consider including him in the squad.

"That is something we are currently discussing." If it's the knockout stages, I believe it's too late since you're talking something that may or may not exist. But if it was earlier in the World Cup, I'm sure we'd be thinking about it," Stead said.