Kane Williamson ruled out of IPL and in doubt for World Cup

Black Caps skipper Kane Williamson will return to New Zealand for assessment after being ruled out of the Indian Premier League with a knee injury.

Williamson was carried from the field on Saturday after injuring his right knee while on debut for the Gujarat Titans, who this afternoon confirmed he would miss the remainder of the competition.

“We wish [him] a speedy recovery and hope for his early return,” the Titans said on social media.

Doubt remains whether the injury will rule out Williamson from the ODI World Cup in October, with New Zealand Cricket saying in a statement that further assessment will be needed.

“Preparations are now underway for him to return to New Zealand next week and be seen by relevant medical specialists to establish a treatment plan.”

Williamson suffered the injury while leaping for a catch on the boundary during the Titans’ first match, receiving treatment for several minutes before being helped off.

The Kiwi managed to save two runs by palming the ball back in play, when it had been heading over the rope, but fell awkwardly on his right leg and immediately went down, clutching his knee in pain.

After receiving treatment for several minutes, he was helped off the field and would not return.

It was Williamson’s first match for Gujarat after his move from the Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he had played since 2015.

Williamson, who stepped down as New Zealand test captain last December, had been in strong form for the test side this year, scoring back-to-back centuries in thrilling tests against England and Sri Lanka, as well as double tons against Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Any long-term absence would be a devastating blow to the Black Caps’ World Cup chances, but Daryl Mitchell was more concerned for his teammate’s wellbeing.

“Kane’s first of all a good friend,” the batsman said after today’s T20 defeat by Sri Lanka. “We’re all feeling for him, but I’m sure he’ll be back. Just as a mate, I know we’ll get around him over the next little bit.”