Haren
New Zealand batter Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the third Test against India in Mumbai, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed on Tuesday.
Williamson missed the first two Tests in Bengaluru and Pune as he remained back home to work on his rehabilitation from a groin injury he suffered during the BlackCaps’ recent tour to Sri Lanka. In the senior batter’s absence, the Tom Latham-led New Zealand recorded their first-ever Test series win in India, snapping the hosts’ streak of 18 consecutive series wins at home.
“Williamson had made good progress, but the cautious approach would give him time to be fully fit for the England series,” NZC said.
“Kane continues to show good signs, but isn’t quite ready to jump on a plane and join us,” head coach Gary Stead said in a statement.
“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.
“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.”
The 34-year-old is expected to return during the Kiwis’ three-match home Test series against England, starting at the Hagley Oval on November 28.
New Zealand squad for third Test vs India: Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Will Young
