Williamson Returns to Plunket Shield with Half-Century

Kane Williamson marked his return to competitive cricket with a composed 60 for Northern Districts on the opening day of their Plunket Shield match against Auckland in Hamilton. This was Williamson's first game in the Plunket Shield in five years, having last featured in October 2019.  

After Auckland won the toss and elected to bowl, Williamson entered at the fall of the first wicket. During his 122-ball innings, he struck seven boundaries and batted for nearly three hours. He forged a 52-run partnership with Robert O'Donnell for the fourth wicket and added another 36 with Brett Hampton before being trapped lbw by Jordan Sussex.  

Ahead of the game, Williamson expressed his connection to the Northern Districts team despite his international commitments.

"You always feel like an ND man, whether you are here or not," he said. "It is nice when the international schedule allows an opportunity to play."  

Williamson had been sidelined for almost two months with a groin injury, last representing New Zealand during their tour of Sri Lanka in September. During his absence, Will Young stepped into the No. 3 role against India, scoring 244 runs and earning Player of the Series honours.  

Williamson's return is timely as he has been included in New Zealand's squad for the upcoming home Test series against England, beginning on November 28 in Christchurch. The series will also be significant as it marks Tim Southee’s farewell in the Test format, barring New Zealand's qualification for the World Test Championship final next year.  

The three-match series will continue in Wellington and conclude in Hamilton.