Kane Williamson has been appointed as captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for the 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), starting April 7. Williamson replaces David Warner, who recently stepped down from the position after been handed a one-year ban by Cricket Australia (CA) for his role in the ball-tampering scandal in the third Test between Australia and South Africa in Cape Town.

‘We are happy to announce Kane Williamson as the captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2018,’ K. Shanmugam, CEO, Sunrisers Hyderabad, said on Thursday, reports hindustantimes.com.

New Zealand skipper Williamson, who has been a part of the franchise since 2015, said it is an ‘exciting opportunity’ and he is looking forward to it.

‘I’ve accepted the role to stand in as captain for this season. It’s an exciting opportunity with a talented group of players. I look forward to the challenges ahead,’ said Williamson.

SRH will open their IPL 2018 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on April 9.