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Kiwi Cricket Comeback: Kane Williamson and Nathan Smith Rejoin New Zealand Squad
20 Oct
Summary
- Kane Williamson set to return to international cricket after a month-long absence
- All-rounder Nathan Smith also makes a comeback after recovering from an abdominal injury
- New Zealand missing several key players due to injuries for the upcoming ODI series against England
As of October 20th, 2025, veteran New Zealand cricketer Kane Williamson is poised to make his international comeback when the Blackcaps take on England in a three-match ODI series starting October 26th. Williamson, 35, had been sidelined for the ongoing T20I series against England due to a "minor medical issue" over the past month.
Alongside Williamson, all-rounder Nathan Smith also returns to the New Zealand squad after completing his recovery from an abdominal injury sustained during the first Test against Zimbabwe in August. The 27-year-old has not featured in competitive cricket since that injury but has now been declared fully fit for the upcoming season.
Head coach Rob Walter expressed his delight at having both Williamson and Smith back in the mix, stating that their return is "fantastic" for the team. However, New Zealand will be without several key players for the ODI series, with Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, and Ben Sears all ruled out due to various injuries.
Mitchell Santner will continue to lead the ODI side, while Tom Latham also returns to the national team, taking up wicketkeeping duties. The left-hander had missed the two-Test series in Zimbabwe with a shoulder injury and hasn't featured in any competitive match since July.
