Williamson returns as New Zealand look to strengthen WTC finale hopes

The last 12 months have been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride for the New Zealand Test side. They had won only one series out of four - against a depleted South African side - heading into the three Tests in India and the issues were compounded with Tim Southee stepping down as captain after the 2-0 series defeat in Sri Lanka. And no one had given them a chance. From bowling out India for 46 on the first morning of play in Bengaluru, everything went right for New Zealand across the series, clinching key moments across the three games. With nothing to lose they managed to do the unthinkable, a 3-0 series whitewash against India in India. An achievement no touring side has ever done before on Indian shores, made even bigger as Kane Williamson had been ruled out of the series.

Suddenly, New Zealand have it all to play for once again with a berth in the World Test Championship final