Star New Zealand Kane Williamson confirms his dedication to New Zealand cricket, revealing that the 2027 ODI World Cup is still on his mind, while acknowledging a shift in his personal priorities ahead of his return since the Champions Trophy final.
Published: October 25, 2025 1:06 PM IST
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 week’s 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 it’s nice to be back
“It’s 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 Stead’s departure in the off-season. “There’s been quite a bit of change since the last time I was here, so it’s nice to meet the new coach and some new players as well. And I’m looking forward to the start of the series.”
Williamson spent a large part of New Zealand’s 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 Zealand’s teams cannot be purely based on personal preference, but he reaffirmed his commitment to playing cricket for his country.
“It’s just an ongoing communication with New Zealand Cricket and with Rob, and I’m grateful for that,” he said. “It’s a lot about the balance, with family and time away, but also the delicate balance of being a part of this team that I’ve really loved and enjoyed for such a long period of time.
“Your life situation changes, as mine has, and I’m 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. It’s been a huge part of my life for 15-plus years, we’ve been through a lot as a group, and a number of transitions. But I’ve 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 Zealand’s 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.”
“There’s always other things,” he added. “Test cricket is pretty dear to me as well. So it’s a little bit about what I want, and little bit more about what the team wants, and where it’s going, and what we’re buying into.”
“We’ll keep those lines of communication open to make sure that we’re focused and clear on what it looks like,” he added. “I’m respectful of the fact that this is a team and a special place, and that they’re always trying to build towards something. For me, in this phase of my career, if I’m there and able to add to it, then brilliant.”
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