New Zealand's focus on England as 'pretty special' WTC final looms
The Black Caps squad is currently quarantining at the Hampshire Bowl, the location of June’s WTC final against India, ahead of the first of two Tests against England.
While the two-Test series shapes as a key chance for New Zealand to prepare for their clash against India, Williamson said his team’s focus right now is on facing the hosts.
“I haven’t really looked at it like it’s lead-in time,” Williamson said. “The first challenge, which is the first Test against a very strong side, is what we need to be focusing on, and I know as a group that is what we will be talking about.
“At the same time, we are playing three Tests quite close together so there is in the back of your mind an eye on that (WTC final), which is a really exciting opportunity.
“I know the guys are really excited. Just being over here to play Test cricket is always a fantastic opportunity, but to play that third one, which is the Test Championship final, is pretty special.”
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It will be the team’s first match since securing their spot in the WTC final, and Williamson is well aware of the challenge facing his team in a country where they have not enjoyed a Test series win since 1999.
“For us, it is a progression thing that is important,” Williamson said. “In three Tests there is every opportunity to do that. We know we are up against some really tough challenges but I know the guys are really excited to face those. The first step is getting out and preparing for it.
“There is a lot of excitement in the camp and we always know how tough the challenge is coming over and playing against England in their own backyard. I know all the players are really excited at that challenge.”
Williamson reserved special praise for England veterans James Anderson and Stuart Broad, who are both in the squad to take on New Zealand.
"They are legends of the game, still playing and doing as well as they ever have done," he said. "They know these conditions better than anyone. They've had incredible careers that are still going and they are still at the heights of their games."
