Kane needs more time in the middle

Kane Williamson’s return to the crease isn’t going to plan.

The Black Caps skipper, who missed four months of cricket with an elbow injury, is compiling the worst statistical batting season in the history of the Indian Premier League. Williamson will surely be pleased to simply be back in the middle, having successfully managed the nagging elbow injury that caused him to miss the home summer.

And the Black Caps, preparing for next month’s three-test series in England, will be similarly satisfied with their captain’s progress from a fitness perspective.

But Sunrisers Hyderabad have suffered from Williamson’s lack of form, especially considering they paid $2.7 million to retain his services.

Far from justifying that financial outlay, Williamson has been one of the key factors in Sunrisers’ 5-6 record this season, with both basic and advanced statistics painting an unsightly picture.

Sunrisers coach Tom Moody said he had thought about dropping Williamson down the order but backed his captain to find form.

“To be fair to Kane, he didn’t even face a ball, so it’ll be pretty hard to judge his form on [that] outing,” Moody said.