With the ICC 2019 World Cup just a few months away, New Zealand were handed a massive blow on Sunday as skipper Kane Williamson had to be taken to the hospital after injuring his shoulder while fielding during the ongoing second Test match against Bangladesh. Williamson faced problems while batting during New Zealand’s innings and had to be taken to the hospital for scans to determine the severity of his injury.

Williamson injured his left shoulder while fielding in the game and was twice attended by the medical staff as he came on to bat. Despite the injury, Williamson showed immense composure throughout his innings as he scored a gritty 74 off 105 deliveries with the help of eleven fours and a solitary six. He was dismissed by Taijul Islam.

A team staff described the step to take Williamson for scans as a ‘precautionary,’ measure. If serious, the injury can prove to be a huge blow for New Zealand with the impending World Cup. The Kiwi skipper has been one of the most consistent run-getters for the BlackCaps across formats and the team cannot afford to lose him for the showpiece event.

Meanwhile, New Zealand posted a strong 396/4 on the board in their first innings, replying to Bangladesh’s total of 211 runs. Openers Jeet Raval (3) and Tom Latham (4) were dismissed cheaply but Williamson combined with Ross Taylor (195) to post 172 runs for the second wicket. Taylor continued his fine form after the skipper’s dismissal as he added another 216 runs for the fourth wicket with Henry Nicholls (107). Taylor remains unbeaten on 195 and will be looking to complete his double century on Day 4.

Earlier, Niel Wagner bowled a destructive spell to pick up a four-wicket haul as New Zealand bundled out Bangladesh for 211 runs. Tim Southee also impressed with the ball as he picked up a three-wicket haul.