Rachin Ravindra has said that filling the space left by Kane Williamson is a job for the whole New Zealand batting group rather than any one player.
A shared responsibility
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ravindra accepted that the departure of one of the country’s greatest ever batters leaves a hole. He said, though, that the depth and quality of the group is something the team is proud of, and that he does not see it as extra pressure on himself. He pointed to Henry Nicholls and Will Young as options in the order. Young has been added to the squad after Williamson’s retirement and is expected to play the second Test.
A tribute to Williamson
Ravindra described Williamson as both an inspiring cricketer and an even better person, and said the squad fully supported his decision to step away. He recalled the partnerships they shared, including a stand of 232 against South Africa in 2024, in which Williamson made 240 and Ravindra 118. He said he had looked up to Williamson for a long time and felt fortunate to bat alongside him.
England in turmoil
New Zealand are looking to square the series at 1-1. England go into the match at The Oval in unsettled circumstances. Captain Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson are unavailable because of suspensions following a nightclub controversy. Joe Root will captain a reshaped side that includes two debutants and four changes from the XI that won at Lord’s.
