Kane Williamson is set to miss the first Test against India due to a groin injury.
New Zealand batter Kane Williamson is doubtful for the first Test of the three-match series due to a groin injury, he suffered during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. Williamson has not travelled with the team. Mark Chapman has been added into the squad as cover for Williamson.
“Williamson experienced groin discomfort during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle and will require a period of rehabilitation before joining the BLACKCAPS Test squad in India,” New Zealand cricket said in a press release.
Chief selector Sam Wells said Williamson will feature in the three-Test series but is doubtful for the opening match at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru starting on October 16.
“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,” said Wells.
“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.”
Allrounder Michael Bracewell will travel with the squad for the first Test in Bengaluru before returning home for the birth of his second child and will be replaced by Ish Sodhi for the remainder of the series.
Sri Lankan spin legend Rangana Herath, who was part of the coaching staff for the recent Tests against Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, will continue his role as spin-coach for the India series.
Squad
Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), 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 & 3rd Test only), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young
