Kane Williamson: New Zealand captain set to miss World Cup after knee injury

Williamson, 32, needs surgery on his right knee followed by rules of rehabilitation.

He was injured while fielding the Gujarat Titans in their win over the Chennai Super Kings during the Indian Premier League Open on Friday.

The Cricket World Cup men's ICC in India starts in October.

New Zealand Cricket said that "standard rehabilitation times ' mean that Williamson is "unlikely to be fit and available for selection" for the tournament.

They added that Williamson is due for surgery within the next three weeks.

"I received great support over the past few days and I want to thank both Gujarat Titans and New Zealand Cricket for that," Williamson said.

"Of course it's disappointing to have such an injury, but I'm now focusing on surgery and starting rehabilitation.

"It's going to take some time, but I'll do everything I can to get back to the field as soon as possible."

The right-hander Williamson landed awkwardly after jumping to stop a six near the boundary and fell to the ground clutching his knee. He was later replaced by Dasun Shanaka on the Titans squad.

Under Williamson, the Black Caps have were beaten to the 2019 World Cup title by England in a super over after a thrilling final at Lord's.

Williamson, who led New Zealand in 87 of their 161 one-day international appearances, added that he was "looking forward to doing what I can 'to support the team' over the coming month".

Wicketkeeper Tom Latham is New Zealand's vice-captain and captained the team during the recent one day series where Williamson rested.