Kane Williamson will miss the opening Test against India in Bengaluru due to a groin strain he sustained during the series against Sri Lanka. His departure from New Zealand has been delayed as he requires rehabilitation at home before flying to India.
In his absence, New Zealand has included Mark Chapman in the squad for the three-Test tour, which begins on October 16. Tom Latham will lead the team after Tim Southee stepped down as captain following a 2-0 defeat in Sri Lanka. The rest of the squad remains unchanged, although Michael Bracewell will only participate in the first Test before leaving for the birth of his second child. Ish Sodhi will replace him for the second and third Tests.
Williamson’s injury is a significant setback for the Black Caps, given his experience in India and New Zealand’s recent struggles for runs. Black Caps selector Sam Wells expressed hope that Williamson could return later in the series but confirmed he would miss the first Test. He emphasized the importance of resting and rehabilitating to avoid aggravating the injury.
Chapman’s inclusion presents an opportunity for him to potentially make his Test debut. Although he has played 78 white-ball matches for New Zealand, he has only played six first-class matches for New Zealand A, including a century against India A in 2020. Former Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath will also join the New Zealand coaching staff for this tour.
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