New Delhi, Oct 16 (NationPress) After being appointed as the strategic advisor for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), seasoned New Zealand cricketer Kane Williamson expressed that it is always a remarkable experience for him to participate in the IPL, which he considers to be the premier franchise competition in the sport.

Previously, Williamson played for the Durban Super Giants, the sister franchise of LSG, during this year’s SA20. Across 79 IPL matches with Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans, he accumulated 2128 runs at an average of 35.46 and a strike rate of 125.61, also achieving the title of leading run-scorer in the 2018 season.

“I’m genuinely thrilled to be joining LSG. They possess an incredibly talented roster and an excellent coaching staff that I eagerly anticipate collaborating with. It's always special being involved in the IPL, the best franchise competition in the game,” stated Williamson, who remains active in international cricket, in a statement published by the franchise on Thursday.

The franchise also revealed the appointment of Carl Crowe as their new spin bowling coach. Crowe, a former player with 42 first-class matches in England, has previously served as the spin bowling coach for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and now joins a coaching team led by Justin Langer, retained as head coach, alongside Bharat Arun, the bowling coach, who was also with KKR until IPL 2025.

“Every IPL season brings with it hope and expectations, and 2026 is no different. We are eager about the work ahead as we strive to build a franchise that the Goenka family, our players, sponsors, supporters, and fans are proud of,” said Langer.

“The preparations have continued since the conclusion of last season as we aim to make a significant impact in this season's IPL. The hope, anticipation, and enthusiasm for LSG are intensifying. We look forward to enhancing our squad in the upcoming months and envision Ekana filled with blue when the season commences,” Langer added.

Interestingly, Langer and Williamson were together at London Spirit during this year's The Hundred. While LSG has not officially announced the departure of Zaheer Khan, who served as their mentor in IPL 2025, the franchise has yet to confirm whether assistant coaches Lance Klusener, Vijay Dahiya, and Rajat Bhatia will continue their roles for next year’s competition.