He has been asked to take rest and rehabilitate by the selectors
In a recent development coming in, a star cricketer’s participation is in doubt for the upcoming three-match India vs New Zealand Test series, slated to start from October 16.
Dynamic batter Kane Williamson is expected to miss the initial part of the India tour after suffering a major groin injury during the second Test against Sri Lanka last month. The 34-year-old will now remain in New Zealand for rehabilitation purposes, Kiwi selector Sam Wells confirmed.
Wells also emphasised the importance of Williamson’s rest and recovery, stating, “The advice we’ve received is that the best course of action is for Kane to rest and rehabilitate now, rather than risk aggravating the injury”.
Kane Willimason’s absence marks further complications for the Black Caps, who are already under pressure following their recent struggles in the longest format of the game.
New Zealand enters the series against India on a four-match losing streak, having recently been swept 2-0 by Sri Lanka. Their challenges for the upcoming red-ball tour are further intensified by their lack of a Test series victory in India.
While the team is optimistic about Kane Williamson’s potential return later in the series, his absence early on significantly weakens New Zealand’s prospects against a formidable Indian team on home turf.
To compensate for Williamson’s absence, New Zealand has called up uncapped all-rounder Mark Chapman, who has shown impressive performance in white-ball cricket and is regarded as a capable player against spin. Given his experience in subcontinental conditions, Chapman’s inclusion is intended to counter India’s strong spin attack and help cover for Williamson’s void.
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