The Blackcaps take on England today at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui for the first One-Day International of the three-match series, with play set to begin at 2pm.

Kane Williamson, who made his international Test debut in 2010, has been named in New Zealand’s ODI squad for the series, marking a welcome return after a short spell out due to a minor medical issue.

Williamson’s comeback is a major boost for the Blackcaps. His experience, composure, and leadership are seen as key assets in the side’s preparations against a formidable England lineup.

The veteran batter spent much of his offseason in England, which he described as “nice with the family.” He signed for Middlesex County Cricket Club for the 2025 English season (County Championship + T20 Blast) which enabled him to keep his batting and match fitness in good shape.

“I was fortunate with the help I was getting over in the UK under Middlesex,” he said. “It’s nice to get on top of those things, get up and running, and into a bit of training to prepare for the one-dayers.”

Balancing family life with international cricket has become a central focus for the 35-year-old, who now has three young children.

“It’s a lot about the balance with family and time away,” he said. “But also, the delicate balance of being a part of this team that I’ve really loved and enjoyed for such a long period of time.”

Williamson said his passion for the game remains as strong as ever.

“I still love the game. I still have a strong desire to get better, train hard, and offer whatever I can for the team,” he said.

“As a young player or as a school kid, that was always the thing — you worked hard at your game and always tried to get better. That hasn’t changed.”

A mainstay of New Zealand cricket for more than 15 years, Williamson has played over 100 Tests, 170 ODIs, and 90 T20 internationals. He is the country’s all-time leading Test run-scorer and remains one of the world’s most respected batters.

New Zealand cricket captain Mitchell Santner and England cricket captain Harry Brook with the series trophy ahead of the first ODI cricket match, NZ v England at Bay Oval. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / Photosport NZ

Reflecting on his career, Williamson said he feels privileged to continue contributing to a team in transition.

“It’s [cricket] been a huge part of my life for 15 plus years. Been through a lot as a group and certainly a number of transitions, a new head coach, some new players, and the leadership roles as well.

“You go through that journey and all these different spaces, but I’ve just loved being a member of this group and playing with a bunch of people that are really committed to each other and to the team. It’s nice to be back.”

Bay Oval at Mount Maunganui. Photo / Supplied.

Looking ahead, he’s not setting long-term goals but admits the ODI World Cup is on his radar.

“In the back of my mind is probably the ODI World Cup,” Williamson said.

“There are always other things. Test cricket is pretty dear to me as well. It’s a little bit about what I want, and a little bit more about what the team wants, where it’s going, and what we’re buying into.

“I keep those lines of communication open to make sure that we’re focused and clear on what it looks like. But also, being really respectful of the fact that this is a team in a special place and that they’re always trying to build towards something.

“For me, in this phase of my career, if I’m there and able to add to it — brilliant.”