IND vs NZ: Will Kane Williamson play the third test in Mumbai?

Kane Williamson missed the first two games of IND vs NZ test series.

With wins in first two matches of the ongoing test series against India, New Zealand scripted history to win their first ever test series on Indian soil.

Known for their impeccable home record, India were outclassed by the Kiwis in all three departments in the first two games of the ongoing test series. Before the series, New Zealand had only won two test matches in India in their entire cricketing history, with their last win coming 36 years ago.

The first test in Bengaluru saw a dramatic Indian batting collapse. New Zealand exploited the moist Bengaluru wicket to full effect bundling India for 46 runs in their first innings, ultimately winning the game comfortably by eight wickets on the last day.

The second game in Pune saw an even more impressive performance by the Kiwis, where they defied expectations to gun down India on a turning track. New Zealand’s batsmen showcased excellent technique against the Indian spin attack, to help their team seal an impressive 113-run win.

Even more impressive is that New Zealand have sealed the series without their most experienced batsman, Kane Williamson, who has been sidelined due to injury and is yet to play a game.

Will Kane Williamson play the third test in Mumbai?

Now, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has confirmed that Kane Williamson will not travel India for the third test as well in Mumbai. Williamson is focused on completing his recovery to be fully fit for New Zealand’s upcoming three-match test series against England.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead, in his update about Williamson, emphasized that the senior batter has made steady progress, but the team is taking a cautious approach to his return.

Stead said, “Kane continues to show good signs, but isn’t quite ready to jump on a plane and join us, while things are looking promising, we think the best course of action is for him to stay in New Zealand and focus on the final part of his rehabilitation so he’ll be good to go for England.“

Stead further explained that the extended recovery time will ensure Williamson will return fresh for the England series. “The England series is still a month away, so taking the cautious approach now will ensure he is ready for the first Test in Christchurch,” Stead concluded.

With the series already won, New Zealand will be looking to create history in Mumbai from November 1. If New Zealand win the third test match, they will become the first team to whitewash India in a home test series of three or more games.

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