New Zealand’s star batter Kane Williamson will miss the second Test against India in Pune due to a groyne strain. Williamson, who sustained the injury during New Zealand’s ICC World Test Championship series against Sri Lanka last month, was also absent from the Black Caps’ historic 8-wicket victory over India in Bengaluru earlier this week.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead confirmed that while Williamson has made progress in his recovery, he is not yet fit enough to play in the second Test, which begins on Thursday. Stead expressed hope that the 33-year-old could be available for the third and final Test in Mumbai, starting November 1.
“Kane is improving, but he’s not 100% fit,” said Stead. “We’re optimistic he’ll be ready for the third Test and will give him all the time he needs to recover, but we’re being cautious.”
Williamson’s absence is a setback for New Zealand, but the team’s dominant performance in the first Test lifted them to fourth in the World Test Championship standings. The remaining matches are critical for New Zealand’s campaign, as they aim to strengthen their position. Despite the loss, India continues to lead the standings, with Australia and Sri Lanka close behind.
The third Test in Mumbai could see Williamson’s return, which would bolster New Zealand’s hopes of securing a rare series win on Indian soil.
New Zealand squad: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young.