Kane Williamson Set to Miss First Test in India Due to Groin Strain, Mark Chapman Named as Cover
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| Mark Chapman, uncapped in Tests, will join the squad as cover for Williamson, known for his prowess against spin and strong first-class record. / GEtty |
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson's participation in the upcoming Test series against India has been delayed due to a groin strain, likely ruling him out of the first Test in Bengaluru.
The injury, sustained during the second Test against Sri Lanka, has forced Williamson into rehabilitation before he can join the squad, New Zealand Cricket announced on Wednesday (October 9).
New Zealand selector Sam Wells expressed optimism that Williamson might return for the latter part of the series, but emphasized the need for rest to prevent further aggravation.
"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. We're hopeful that if the rehabilitation goes to plan, Kane will be available for the latter part of the tour," Wells said.
While Williamson’s absence is a significant blow for the Black Caps, it opens the door for other players to step up. Mark Chapman, uncapped in Tests but a regular in New Zealand’s white-ball squads, has been called up as cover for Williamson. Chapman, with a strong first-class average of 41.9, has shown his ability against spin in subcontinent conditions, making him a valuable addition to the squad.
"We believe Mark is one of our best players of spin and has a proven track record in the subcontinent. His ability to play spin proactively, combined with his excellent first-class record, makes him well-suited for the conditions in India," Wells added.
Chapman, who scored 245 runs in three matches in last season's Plunket Shield, including a century against Otago Volts, will now have an opportunity to showcase his talent on the international stage.
In other team news, Michael Bracewell will be available for the first Test before returning home for the birth of his second child. He will be replaced by leg-spinner Ish Sodhi for the remainder of the series.
The New Zealand squad for the India tour includes:
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 Tests only), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
New Zealand will look to make an impact in India, even with Williamson's absence, as they prepare for a challenging series against a strong Indian side.