2nd Test ENG vs NZ: Will Kane Williamson be available for second Test? Here’s the update

2nd Test ENG vs NZ: As England and New Zealand gear for the second clash at Edgbaston beginning Thursday, turbulence has inflicted the Kiwis camp regarding players’ availability. The Blackcaps had troubled the host- England in their first Test at Lord’s that concluded in a draw.

Since New Zealand are slated to play the World Test Championship Final against India at Southampton on June 18, they are extra cautious on managing workload and ensuring complete fitness of their players. So, for the Edgbaston’s Test that precedes the WTC, Kiwis head coach Gary Stead on Tuesday gave an update on the availability of major players- Kane Williamson, Trent Boult and Mitch Santner.

Kane Williamson doubtful for 2nd Test ENG vs NZ

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said that skipper Kane Williamson’s left elbow injury is being monitored. The assurance of the skipper’s availability in the second Test against England will be taken on Wednesday.

In the Lord’s Test, however, the Kiwis skipper had a hard time on the pitch where he scored just 13 and 1 in the two innings.

Also read: England Cricketer’s old Tweet mocking India goes viral 

England vs New Zealand Trent Boult likely to feature

New Zealand’s bowling great Trent Boult was rested in the first Test against England to manage workload ahead of the WTC final. However, he is likely to play for his side during the Edgbaston’s Test.

Gary Stead update, Birmingham:

– Pace bowlers from Lord’s won’t all play 2nd Test
– Trent Boult available & likely to return
– Mitch Santner ruled out with his cut left index finger
– Kane Williamson’s left elbow injury being monitored & a decision to be made tomorrow#ENGvNZ pic.twitter.com/2o46zoXWqw

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) June 8, 2021

Besides, the Tweet on the official handle of BlackCaps also mentioned that pace bowlers from Lord’s won’t all play the second Test. This means that Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Kyle Jamieson and Colin de Grandhomme who played as pacers in the first Test, will not be featuring in the second Test against England.

Additionally, the Twitter post also confirmed Mitch Santner’s unavailability who has been ruled out with his cut left index finger

Also read: Who will replace suspended Ollie Robinson in second Test?