Kane Williamson Ruled Out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Final Against India Due to Injury

New Zealand Suffer Another Blow as Williamson Misses Second Innings, In a major setback for New Zealand, Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the second innings of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against India due to a quad strain. The New Zealand Cricket Board confirmed the news just before India’s chase began, stating that Mark Chapman would replace him in the field.

Although Williamson is not the current captain, his presence as a senior player and key batter was crucial for New Zealand’s middle order. His absence adds to the team’s woes, as they were already missing star pacer Matt Henry due to injury.

How Did Kane Williamson Get Injured?

Williamson picked up the quad strain while batting in the first innings. He tried to push a delivery from Kuldeep Yadav to long-on but ended up offering a return catch to the bowler, getting dismissed for just 11 off 14 balls.

Following his dismissal, he experienced discomfort and did not return to the field for the second innings. The New Zealand medical staff monitored his condition, but ultimately ruled him out before the Indian innings started.

New Zealand’s Struggles Without Key Players

• Williamson’s absence adds to New Zealand’s challenges, as they are already without Matt Henry, their highest wicket-taker in the tournament.
• Matt Henry’s Injury: Suffered a shoulder injury while attempting a catch in the semi-final vs South Africa.
• Henry’s Replacement: Nathan Smith was brought in for the final.
• Williamson’s Replacement: Mark Chapman took his place in the field for the second innings.
• Despite these setbacks, New Zealand fought hard in the first innings, scoring 251/7, thanks to crucial half-centuries from Daryl Mitchell (63) and Michael Bracewell (53 off 40 balls).

Kane Williamson’s Champions Trophy 2025 Performance

Even though his final ended in disappointment, Williamson has been one of New Zealand’s best performers in the tournament:

• 5 Matches
• 1 Century (vs South Africa in Semi-Final)
• 200 Runs

His experience has been instrumental in guiding New Zealand to the final, and his absence in the second innings puts additional pressure on the team.

India’s Response and Chase Underway

With Kane Williamson out, India’s batting lineup will look to capitalize on New Zealand’s depleted squad.

India’s chase began under favorable conditions, with spinners already proving to be dominant on this surface. New Zealand will have to rely on their remaining bowlers and fielding unit to defend their total and keep the match competitive.

What’s Next for Kane Williamson?

Williamson’s injury raises concerns about his long-term fitness, especially with major tournaments coming up. The team management will closely monitor his recovery before making any decisions regarding his participation in future series.

For now, New Zealand will have to fight on without one of their most experienced players, hoping their bowlers can step up in his absence.

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