Williamson is set to miss the India Test series opening matches following a groin strain

Kane Williamson’s departure to India for the highly anticipated Test series will be postponed, as he is expected to miss the first Test in Bengaluru due to a groin strain sustained during the recent match against Sri Lanka. Williamson, who felt discomfort during the second Test of the series, will need time to undergo rehabilitation before joining the New Zealand squad. This update was confirmed in a statement from New Zealand Cricket released on Wednesday (October 9), where officials clarified that Williamson’s recovery is being prioritized to prevent further aggravation of the injury.

New Zealand selector Sam Wells expressed optimism that while the injury is a setback, there is hope Williamson could rejoin the squad later in the series once his rehabilitation is complete. Wells emphasized that medical experts have advised a cautious approach. “The best course of action, as we’ve been told, is for Kane to rest and rehabilitate now rather than risk making the injury worse. We remain hopeful that if his recovery goes according to plan, Kane will be fit to return for the latter part of the series,” Wells said. Although losing a key player like Williamson at the start of the tour is disappointing, Wells noted that this situation opens the door for other players to contribute in what remains a critical and competitive series against India.

Mark Chapman, who has yet to make his Test debut, has been called up as cover for Williamson. Though uncapped in Test cricket, Chapman has earned a reputation in New Zealand’s white-ball squads. He is considered a promising candidate for the longer format. Chapman’s first-class cricket record speaks volumes about his potential, with an average of 41.9, including six centuries. One of his standout performances came against India A in 2020. In addition to that, he accumulated 245 runs in the Plunket Shield last season, including an impressive century (123) against Otago Volts. Wells highlighted Chapman’s proficiency against spin, which is crucial for success in the challenging subcontinental conditions. “Mark is one of our best players of spin, and his performances in the sub-continent, combined with his excellent first-class record, give us confidence that he will be able to contribute significantly in India,” Wells explained.

In a related update, Michael Bracewell, who will be part of the squad for the first Test, is set to return home immediately after to be present for the birth of his second child. Bracewell’s temporary departure from the squad will see Ish Sodhi take his place for the remainder of the series. Sodhi, an experienced campaigner, brings his expertise in spin to the table, a skill set that will be crucial for New Zealand as they face India in their home conditions. The dynamic between Bracewell and Sodhi will be closely watched as New Zealand navigates its way through the challenges of the series.

New Zealand squad:

New Zealand has named a strong squad for it. They are blending experienced players with emerging talent for their upcoming Test series in India. Tom Latham will lead the side, and Tom Blundell will be the wicketkeeper. Michael Bracewell is set to play only the first Test, while Mark Chapman, known for his impressive first-class performances, joins the squad to potentially make his Test debut. Devon Conway, Matt Henry, and Daryl Mitchell will add further stability to the batting and bowling departments, while young pacer Will O’Rourke offers fresh energy. Spin options include Ajaz Patel and Rachin Ravindra, with all-rounder Mitchell Santner providing depth.

The squad is rounded out by Ben Sears and seasoned spinner Ish Sodhi, who will join the team for the second and third Tests. Tim Southee will spearhead the pace attack alongside Kane Williamson, who, although currently recovering from a groin strain, is expected to contribute later in the series. Will Young completes the lineup, giving New Zealand a well-rounded team equipped to face the challenging conditions in India.

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