Ahead of the final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), former India wicket-keeper, Parthiv Patel lavished praise on New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson. Speaking on Star Sports show Game Plan, Patel asserted that Williamson is no less than his Indian counterpart, Virat Kohli.

Parthiv Patel explained, “What Virat Kohli is for India, we’re talking for Kane Williamson for New Zealand. Someone who is very experienced, someone who knows how to play on the English conditions, he has done really well against England in England, and plus his ability to play really late.”

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Parthiv lauded Williamson’s technique of playing the ball late and under the eyeline in English conditions, which makes it difficult for a bowler to dismiss him. 

Patel elaborated, “I think, especially when you are playing in England, that makes a huge difference. You have got to play under your eyeline all the time, so to get him out, you’ve got to bowl really well against him.”

The left-hand batter also mentioned that Williamson’s “decisive” footwork leaves no option for a bowler to hit the right areas more often than not.

Parthiv Patel explained, “You have to make sure you are hitting the areas more often than not. The ability which he has, with correct defense and is always decisive about his footwork.”

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Williamson will be expected to play a crucial role when New Zealand will be locking horns with India in the first-ever WTC Final scheduled to be commencing from June 18 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. Currently, New Zealand is locking horns with England for a two-match Test series against hosts England. The first Test ended in a draw while the second Test is scheduled to start from June 10.