NZ v SL: Williamson’s absence a good thing, says Taylor

NZ given a chance to fine-tune batting order ahead of World Cup

WELLINGTON: Kane Williamson's absence for possibly the next three matches against Sri Lanka could be a blessing in disguise for New Zealand, with the batting order given the opportunity to fine tune plans for the World Cup.

Test opener Tom Latham will bat in Williamson's place at number three in the second game against Sri Lanka in Hamilton today, said top-order batsman Ross Taylor yesterday.

Williamson, who is out for about seven to 10 days with a slight shoulder injury, has scored 722 runs, including seven half-centuries and one century, at 72.20 in the past 12 months and is considered crucial to the co-hosts’ World Cup hopes.

"It's probably a good thing," said Taylor of Williamson's enforced absence. "We want to see how these guys handle themselves under pressure.

“Williamson has been the go-to guy for the last 12-18 months. It will be different but exciting as well to see how [these guys] perform under pressure, [which] bodes well for the World Cup."

New Zealand must also explore options at number five, with Latham and Grant Elliott thought to be contesting the spot for the global showpiece after captain Brendon McCullum reverted to opening the batting.

He belted a 19-ball half century in the first match in Christchurch, which gave the hosts a flying start in pursuit of the 219 runs needed for victory. The recalled Elliott batted at five in the three-wicket win in the first match at Hagley Oval and is expected to play there today, added Taylor, though the all-rounder was absent from training due to a family issue yesterday.

Meanwhile, statistics suggest Latham's best position is at the top of the order, where he has time to build an innings. Latham has scored 146 runs at 24.33 in his last eight ODI innings, all in the middle order, while his highest career score, 86, came as an opener.

 

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