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Revealed- Why Kane Williamson isn't included in New Zealand's ODI squad vs India?

Rajgeeta Yadav

Kane Williamson [Source: AFP]Kane Williamson [Source: AFP]

On Tuesday, New Zealand Cricket announced its squads for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against India, and the biggest surprise was the absence of former captain Kane Williamson from the ODI team. 

Many fans were shocked, especially since Kane Williamson is still considered one of New Zealand’s best and most experienced players. However, there are clear and practical reasons behind this decision

Kane Williamson opted for casual contract with NZC

The main reason Kane Williamson is not part of the ODI squad is his casual contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC). Unlike regular central contracts, this type of agreement allows Williamson to choose which series he wants to play. 

At this stage of his career, he has the freedom to manage his workload and focus on tournaments that suit him best.

Another major factor is the clash with the SA20 league in South Africa. The ODI series against India overlaps with the SA20 tournament, which begins on December 26. Williamson is signed to play for the Durban Super Giants (DSG) in that league. 

Under his casual contract, Kane Williamson is allowed to prioritise franchise cricket over certain international matches, which is exactly what he has chosen to do.

This is not the first time Williamson has missed New Zealand matches for T20 leagues. Earlier this year, he skipped a Test series against Zimbabwe and a T20I tri-series to play county cricket in England and take part in The Hundred. At 35, managing fitness and workload has become important for him.

Apart from Kane Williamson, New Zealand have also rested or ruled out several other senior players. Regular captain Mitchell Santner is being rested due to a groin issue, keeping the upcoming T20 World Cup in mind. 

Fast bowler Matt Henry is still recovering from a calf injury, while Tom Latham will miss the series because of the birth of his third child. Some players are also injured, and others like Rachin Ravindra and Jacob Duffy have been rested.

Due to all this, New Zealand have selected a young and inexperienced ODI squad, with Michael Bracewell named as captain.