Kane Williamson to Miss India Test Series: New Zealand announced their Test squad against India, but their star batter Kane Williamson’s availability is in jeopardy. Williamson had a groin injury in New Zealand’s last series against Sri Lanka.
The 3-match Test series will commence on October 16, with the first match being played at RCB’s home ground, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.
Kane Williamson to Miss India Test Series
The New Zealand squad is expected to travel to India on coming Friday, October 11. Williamson is advised to rest for now and will not be taking part in the first Test. If he gets well, he may join the squad for the later Tests.
New Zeland selector Sam Wells confirmed it. He is also hopeful that the legendary batter joins them for the second and third Tests.
“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.
“We’re hopeful that if the rehabilitation goes to plan Kane will be available for the latter part of the tour. While it’s obviously disappointing to not have Kane available from the start of the tour, it provides an opportunity for someone else to play a role in an important series.”
Williamson is in the squad, but a backup is also included in the likes of Mark Chapman, who will be having his Test debut if he gets to be in the playing XI. Chapman has capped for the Kiwies in 23 ODIs and 76 T20Is till now. Mark is well-equipped to play spin, and this is one reason that led to his inclusion in the squad, according to Wells.
“Mark has displayed an ability to play spin proactively in the international arena, and combined with his excellent first-class record, we see him as someone who can succeed in the type of conditions we expect to encounter in India.”
New Zeland Test Squad vs India
New Zealand Squad: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Mark Chapman (cover), Devon Conway, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Ish Sodhi (2nd & 3rd Test only), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears, Michael Bracewell (1st Test only)
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