Separate white and red ball teams possible only when talent pool is large: Williamson

Wellington, Nov 15 (PTI) England’s stupendous success in limited-overs cricket has forced rival teams to consider having separate teams and coaches in different formats but New Zealand captain Kane Williamson believes the talent pool is the best option. It is possible to do this only after growing up.

Williamson was referring to teams like India having a large pool of reserve players which is not possible in a small country like New Zealand.

England have Brendon McCullum as the coach for the Test team while the limited overs team is coached by Matthew Mott.

Williamson said in a virtual press conference ahead of the T20 series against India starting on Friday, “There is so much cricket being played that it is challenging not only for the players but also for the support staff.”

He said, “Playing matches every two or three days has its own challenges. There is a need to strike a balance in different formats around the world. ,

He said, “Some countries have a large pool of players who can do this. You are always trying to strike a balance so that the players stay fresh.

Williamson, the skipper of the Kiwis who lost in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup last week, was asked whether England has set new standards for playing T20 cricket.

He said, “There are many strong T20 teams and we saw in the tournament that there were many upsets. England played very attacking cricket which suited the balance of their team. Every team likes to work on their strengths and play accordingly.

The series against India will feature three T20Is and three ODIs, which will be crucial for preparations for next year’s ODI World Cup in India.

India’s senior players have been ruled out of the series but Williamson believes that the Indian team has enough depth to pose a tough challenge to the hosts.

After the disappointing performance in the World Cup, many changes will be seen in the Indian team. Fast bowler Umran Malik has been given a chance to prove himself at the big stage.

Williamson, who played with Malik in the IPL, said, “Umran is very talented. Spent a lot of time with him last year and speed is his strength. It will be wonderful to see him play at the international level.

Martin Guptill and Trent Boult could not find a place in the New Zealand squad but Williamson said both are part of New Zealand’s strategy and the other players need to be given a chance while looking at the future.