Following New Zealand’s 0-3 defeat at the hands of Australia earlier this year, rumors surfaced that Stead preferred left-handed batsman Tom Latham for Test captaincy over incumbent Williamson.
On Monday, New Zealand coach Gary Stead dismissed speculations he had attempted to remove Kane Williamson from Test captaincy, saying “there is no truth” in them and his relationship with the skipper remains “strong.”
The Reason: Why Rugby Is So Important In New Zealand?
Following New Zealand’s 0-3 loss at Australia ‘s hands earlier this year, reports have arisen that Stead favored left-handed batsman Tom Latham to captain Test over incumbent Williamson.
“There’s no truth to it … that was certainly news to me, we certainly had no conversations around that sort of thing,” Stead was quoted as saying by ‘Newshub’ as he opened up on the issue for the first time.
“It’s our guy at this point, Kane. He’s the one we’ve sponsored, he’s been a fantastic leader for this squad and I’m sure he’s going to be there in the future too. Asked about his Williamson partnership, Stead said: “I think it is really good. I think that’s good.
Must Read: Top 5 Popular Sports In New Zealand Till Now
“As a bloke I admire him, and what he stands for. He’s a really value-based guy and brings a lot of hell to the squad.
“It’s a difficult one because there are some wonderful feelings that come from that game as well, but it was just the one barrier we didn’t cross. It’s what I’m confident the players can push and keep on trying to do better every day.
The 48-year-old said he still feels a “little sluggish” but is immensely proud of the manner in which his boys played the whole game.
As a Kiwi and as a supporter of the Blackcaps it was hard to be any more proud of the way they played and fought in that match,” he added.