IND vs NZ: Why will Kane Williamson not play in 1st test vs India?

Mark Chapman has been added to New Zealand’s squad as Kane Williamson’s replacement for the first test.

Veteran New Zealand batsman Kane Williamson is set to miss the opening test against India in Bengaluru. New Zealand have roped in Mark Chapman to their original squad for the three-match test series against India, starting on October 16.

The remainder of the squad remains unchanged, though Michael Bracewell will only be available for the first test as he is set to return home for the birth of his second child. Ish Sodhi will join the team as his replacement for the second and third tests.

Tom Latham will lead the side after Tim Southee decided to step down as New Zealand captain following the 2-0 defeat in Sri Lanka.

Why will Kane Williamson not play in 1st test vs India?

Kane Williamson will miss the first test against India due to a groin injury he sustained during the Sri Lanka tour. This delayed his departure from New Zealand.

Williamson’s absence is a huge blow for the Black Caps, given his vast experience in India and New Zealand’s recent struggles with the bat in Sri Lanka last month. Williamson began experiencing groin discomfort during the second test in Galle and will require additional time for rehabilitation before heading to India.

New Zealand selector Sam Wells is hopeful that Williamson could still feature later in the series but confirmed his unavailability for the first test.

Wells said, “The best course of action for Kane is rest and rehab to avoid further complications. We’re hopeful that he will be fit for the latter stages of the tour.”

Mark Chapman set for possible test debut

Williamson’s absence provides an opportunity for Mark Chapman, who may make his test debut after playing 78 white-ball matches for New Zealand.

Chapman has six First Class (FC) centuries under his belt, including a century against India A in 2020. His recent form includes a century and an 83-run knock during New Zealand’s Plunket Shield matches last season.

Former Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath will also travel with the New Zealand squad as spin-bowling consultant after serving the same role during their tour of Sri Lanka.

New Zealand squad for India test series:

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 and 3rd test only), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young.

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