Kane Williamson Absent and New Zealand announce Test Squad for India Series

New Zealand’s Test squad for their upcoming series against India has been announced, with a notable absence: Kane Williamson, the team’s star batter, will miss the start of the series due to a groin injury. 

The Black Caps revealed this setback on October 9, 2024, as they finalized their squad for the tour.

Williamson suffered the injury during New Zealand’s recent series against Sri Lanka, and after medical assessment, the team decided that he would undergo rehabilitation before joining the squad. 

While the captain’s absence is a significant blow, New Zealand is hopeful that he will recover in time to participate in the latter part of the series.

Selector Sam Wells expressed optimism, stating, “It’s obviously disappointing not to have Kane available from the start, but this creates an opportunity for another player to step up.” 

Tom Latham to Lead New Zealand in First Test as Mark Chapman Joins Squad

In Kane Williamson’s absence for the first Test, Tom Latham will captain the New Zealand team in the match against India, scheduled for October 16- 5 November.

Mark Chapman, who has not yet played a Test, has been added to the squad as cover for Williamson. Chapman has a strong first-class average of 41.9 and has delivered notable performances, including a century against India A in 2020.

Key Absences and Inclusions in the Black Caps Squad

In addition to Williamson’s injury, New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell will play only in the first Test before leaving the series for the birth of his second child. 

Ish Sodhi is set to replace him for the remaining matches. Bracewell’s departure adds pressure on New Zealand’s spin department, but Sodhi’s experience in India is expected to be valuable.

The team will rely on experienced players like Tom Latham, Tim Southee, and Daryl Mitchell as they face a challenging Indian side on their home turf.

New Zealand’s Squad For Test Series Vs India

• Tom Latham ©
• Tom Blundell (wk)
• Michael Bracewell (1st Test only)
• Mark Chapman (Uncapped)
• Devon Conway
• Matt Henry
• Daryl Mitchell
• Will O’Rourke
• Ajaz Patel
• Glenn Phillips
• Rachin Ravindra
• Mitchell Santner
• Ben Sears
• Ish Sodhi (2nd & 3rd Test only)
• Tim Southee
• Kane Williamson
• Will Young

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