Last Updated on 3 years by Charbel Coorey
Cricket News: What does Kane Williamson think about the future of cricket? | Williamson discusses Boult and de Grandhomme decisions
New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson opened up on cricket’s changing landscape as key Kiwi stars continue to turn down their national contracts. 36-year-old all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme walked away from international commitments to participate in T20 franchise leagues across the world, soon after Trent Boult was released from his NZC central contract.
Both Boult and de Grandhomme have secured contracts in the Big Bash League (BBL), whose dates clash with several of New Zealand’s scheduled matches. In fact, other Kiwi players are expected to follow suit as well given that 17 out of the 19 nationally contracted cricketers are aged above 30 years.
So much seems to have happened so quickly in cricket – Kane Williamson
“It’s a tricky one because it is changing. So much seems to have happened so quickly. It does seem to be a movement in the landscape of the game. Every case is unique and every case has got their individual needs at different stages of their lives,” Williamson reflected on the issue, as he geared up to lead the side in a three-match ODI series vs Australia.
He added, “There are a lot of different franchise events happening and seeing players make decisions on their playing careers…suggests that there is a balance to strike and some things to work through.”
The 32-year-old Williamson has dealt with his fair share of injury issues in recent times. The tennis-elbow complication shifted him to the sidelines for an arguably prolonged period. The elbow issue has placated now but he missed a couple of ODIs against West Indies due to a quad injury last month. Williamson termed that move as a precautionary measure.
He reiterated that he is enjoying his time with the Kiwis upon being asked whether he would consider taking up the franchise cricket route in the future.
“At the moment I’m very much here and looking to do my very best for the team. I love being involved in this environment,” the skipper said, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. “It’s nice to have those 10 days at home and the body is feeling good. It’s nice to be training fully and batting for long periods in the nets,” Williamson further quipped.
