Tauranga, Oct 6 (NationPress) New Zealand head coach Rob Walter has revealed that conversations regarding Kane Williamson’s availability for the current home summer are ongoing. While no definitive decision has been reached, Walter emphasized that Williamson will be afforded the time he requires to determine when he will represent New Zealand.

Williamson, who currently holds a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC), chose to withdraw from the recent three-match T20I series against Australia. Additionally, he missed the tour of Zimbabwe to participate in county cricket and The Hundred in England.

New Zealand’s home season will proceed with a limited-overs series against England, followed by the West Indies visiting for an all-format tour in November. "With Kane, we're still in discussions about how the summer will unfold. He will undoubtedly play; the specifics of when and where are still being finalized.

"The reality is that we are addressing all players on casual contracts, each in different positions regarding their playing status. Kane is among those who deserve the time to contemplate what his year ahead will look like.

“However, I keep reiterating the most crucial aspect, which is his desire to play for his country. Figuring out what that entails may take an additional week or two, but he certainly deserves that consideration,” Walter informed reporters on Monday.

Walter also confirmed that New Zealand will be without Finn Allen (foot) and Adam Milne (ankle) for the upcoming white-ball series against England, commencing October 18 in Christchurch.

Nevertheless, he expressed hope regarding the availability of white-ball captain Mitchell Santner, who is recovering from groin issues, and Rachin Ravindra, who was a late withdrawal from the T20Is against Australia due to a facial injury sustained during training after colliding with the boundary boards.

"We do not operate in an ideal world, and that is part of the game. I participated in a World Cup campaign (with South Africa) where the team came together at full strength just three days before our opening match, and that team managed to reach the final.

"For me, it’s simply how it works. The most important factor is the environment and team culture that comes together when needed. We know that by the end of the India series (in January), just prior to the World Cup, our complete World Cup squad will be assembled.

"As long as the players remain engaged in competitive cricket, that’s vital, and nearly everyone has been part of the environment at some stage, so I anticipate they can reintegrate smoothly,” he added.