New coach says Williamson still wants to play for New Zealand

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FILE PHOTO: Cricket - ICC Mens Champions Trophy - Semi Final - South Africa v New Zealand - Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Pakistan - March 5, 2025 New Zealands Kane Williamson celebrates after reaching his century REUTERS/Akhtar Soomro/File Photo

New Black Caps coach Rob Walter says Kane Williamson still wants to represent New Zealand in international cricket despite opting out of the upcoming tour of Zimbabwe.

The 34-year-old master batsman turned down a central contract with New Zealand Cricket for this season, enabling him to pick and choose his availability and take up lucrative contracts in franchise cricket.

So instead of playing two tests in Bulawayo in late July and August, Williamson will be captaining London Spirit in The Hundred in England.

Myself and Kane have had a nice conversation, a long conversation, South African Walter told the New Zealand Herald.

It was really great to catch up with him and discuss cricket. It was great to get his lens on New Zealand cricket and the Black Caps. Hes been so influential in their success over the years.

But then also to discuss what the future might look like. Ive said it repeatedly, hes still very committed to the Black Caps, and wants to play international cricket. I dont think itll be too long until we see that.

After Zimbabwe, New Zealand play a Twenty20 series against Australia and two limited overs series against England in October before hosting West