Kane Williamson is hoping a rare appearance in domestic one-day cricket will play a part in having him ready for the looming test series against England.
Kane Williamson. Photo: Photosport
Williamson played his first domestic game of the season for Northern Districts on Monday although it wasn't a good omen as they went down by three wickets in Napier.
The former Black Caps Test captain last turned out for Northern Districts two years ago and it's nearly a decade since he played a domestic one-day game.
Monday's match was also the first time he'd played against his cousin Dane Cleaver in any domestic format.
Williamson scored a solid 43 off 68 balls in his first innings since returning from New Zealand's tour of Pakistan, his innings ended when he was caught by Will Young from the bowling of Ajaz Patel - both Black Caps team-mates.
It was the top score as the Knights reached 205 all out off 48.3 overs.
Central Districts reached 209-7 off 47.2 overs in response - boosted by half-centuries to Young (71) and opener Brad Schmulian (59).
Williamson deliberately made himself unavailable for the two white ball series in India to prepare for the two-test home series against the English, starting at Mount Maunganui on February 16.