Has Blackcaps captain Kane Williamson timed his peak in performance to perfection?
That’s the question on everyone’s lips as New Zealand’s national side heads into the T20 World Cup semi-final on Wednesday evening.
The captain has copped plenty of criticism in recent weeks for mediocre knocks and a measured batting style, but was back to his best in the final match of the tournament regular against Ireland, hitting 61 off 35 balls.
With the Blackcaps’ do-or-die semi-final against Pakistan fast approaching, the Daily Telegraph’s Will Macpherson says Williamson’s position in the side should not be questioned.
“You can debate Kane Williamson’s place in the team, whether he’s in form, whether he’s scoring too slowly or whatever (but) I would just always want him there,” Macpherson told SENZ Breakfast.
“(He has) that kind of clutch personality.
“I think back to the final last year where he single-handedly got New Zealand to a score which I know wasn’t defended in the end but it put them in a good position.
“I’d always want him there. He was class in the 2019 World Cup and I think that innings the other day might just get his tournament rolling.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s the guy who turns up on (Wednesday).”
The Blackcaps’ clinical victory over Ireland saw them top the Group 1 standings and they will now take on Pakistan for a spot in the World Cup final on Sunday evening at the MCG.
England will take on India in the second semi-final on Thursday evening at Adelaide Oval.
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