Northern Knights youngster Kane Williamson was excited to be named as part of the BLACKCAPS squad to be touring the sub-continent and he can’t wait to be part of the action for the international side.
Although the 19 year old was surprised to get a call up, he had an inkling something good was coming his was. “I was absolutely surprised. You don’t expect anything,” he said. “I knew I was in the frame but it’s a great feeling to be picked to go on tour.”
The right hand batsman and handy right arm off-break spin bowler has already experienced conditions in the sub-continent and will use that experience during the up coming tour to help reach his goals. “I went to India last year with the New Zealand A team. The wickets are slower and lower and the weather is really hot,” he said. “It was great experience to have, especially now being in the position that I an in, it certainly gives you direction with training and what to expect.”
He’s hoping he’ll get an opportunity to once again apply his skills on the slower pitches, and make his international debut for the BLACKCAPS. “I’m really looking forward to getting out there and having a crack and playing against some of the best sides in the world on their home tracks,” Williamson said. “Looking forward I was to do well and perform. That’s what I’ve been preparing to do for the last two to three months.”
Nerves can play a huge part when performing on the international stage, however Williamson is working hard to ensure he is ready to step up to the next level and try not to get too caught up in the moment. “The key is to relax and to play my natural game and try not to get over ruled by the occasion.”
He’s also not too fazed by the fact that he could possibly make his BLACKCAPS debut away from home. “It’s always been a dream of mine and to have that come true is a great thing,” he said. “Hopefully I’ll be able to focus on my game, and face different challenges. Playing away from home is just another challenge.”
Williamson is now back home from a training camp in Brisbane and will spend it training on home soil before joining the rest of the team on a pre-tour camp. He already knows a number of the players from the New Zealand domestic scene who are in the BLACKCAPS and he can’t wait to hit the road with them. “I’ve had heaps of support and they are a great bunch of guys. I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.
