Kane Williamson will miss the start of the India Test series due to a groin strain
Kane Williamson’s departure to India has been delayed, and he is likely to miss the opening Test in Bengaluru due to a groin strain sustained recently.
Williamson experienced discomfort during the second Test against Sri Lanka and will need to undergo rehabilitation before joining the squad in India, according to a media release from New Zealand Cricket on Wednesday (October 9).
New Zealand selector Sam Wells expressed optimism that Williamson could return later in the series after completing his recovery.
“The advice we’ve received is that Kane should rest and rehabilitate now to avoid aggravating the injury.
We’re hopeful that if all goes well, he’ll be available for the latter stages of the tour,” Wells said.
While it’s disappointing to lose Williamson for the start of the series, Wells noted that it opens up an opportunity for someone else to step up in a crucial contest.
Mark Chapman, who is uncapped at the Test level, will join the squad as cover for Williamson.
A regular in New Zealand’s white-ball sides, Chapman boasts a first-class average of 41.9, with six centuries, including one against India A in 2020.
Last season, he scored 245 runs in three matches in the Plunket Shield, with a top score of 123 against Otago Volts.
“We believe Mark is one of our best players of spin and has a strong track record in the subcontinent,” Wells added.
“His ability to play spin proactively in international cricket, coupled with his excellent first-class record, makes him a good fit for the conditions we expect to face in India.”
Additionally, Michael Bracewell will be with the squad for the first Test before returning home for the birth of his second child.
Ish Sodhi will replace Bracewell for the remainder of the series.
New Zealand squad:
| Player Name |
|---|
| Tom Latham (Captain) |
| Tom Blundell (Wicket Keeper) |
| Michael Bracewell (1st Test Only) |
| Mark Chapman |
| Devon Conway |
| Matt Henry |
| Daryl Mitchell |
| Will O’Rourke |
| Ajaz Patel |
| Glenn Phillips |
| Rachin Ravindra |
| Mitchell Santner |
| Ben Sears |
| Ish Sodhi (2nd and 3rd Test Only) |
| Tim Southee |
| Kane Williamson |
| Will Young |
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