Kane Williamson has made a remarkable recovery from a groin injury that kept him out of New Zealand's historic whitewash of India in their recent home series. This news comes as a massive boost to the Black Caps, as they gear up to take on a strong English side in a highly anticipated three-match Test series.
Williamson's inclusion in the squad is a timely one, given the fact that the series is also going to be a farewell for New Zealand legend Tim Southee. Having their skipper back in the fold is bound to give the team an added motivation to make it a memorable send-off for the veteran fast bowler.
Southee, one of New Zealand's greatest ever bowlers, is set to call it a day after the series against England. With over 650 wickets across formats, Southee has been one of the most successful Kiwi bowlers in international cricket. His farewell series is sure to be an emotional one, and the presence of Williamson will only add to the occasion.
For England, this series will be an acid test of their mettle. With a strong team led by the likes of Ben Stokes and Joe Root, they will be eager to make a statement against a New Zealand side that has been one of the most consistent teams in Test cricket over the past few years.
With the return of Williamson, the Black Caps' batting order looks a lot more formidable now. The likes of Devon Conway and Tom Latham have been in excellent form lately, and the addition of Williamson will only add to their firepower. The English bowlers will have their task cut out against a strong batting line-up, and it promises to be an intriguing battle.
The series is all set to kick off soon, and with Williamson back in the mix, it has all the ingredients of being a classic contest. Will the Black Caps be able to give Southee a fitting send-off, or will the English team upset the applecart? Only time will tell.