New Zealand’s Test series opener against India in Bengaluru has been dealt a significant blow with the absence of their star batsman Kane Williamson. The 34-year-old is still recovering from a groin strain sustained during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
Williamson’s absence is a major setback for the Kiwis, who are looking to make a strong start to their India tour. The experienced campaigner has been in excellent form this year, amassing 618 runs in 12 innings, including three centuries and two half-centuries. His leadership and experience will be sorely missed in the opening game.
Williamson’s record in India is not particularly impressive, with an average of 33.53 in 15 innings. However, his absence as a leader will be keenly felt by the Black Caps. Tom Latham has taken over as captain, but he will be without the guidance of Williamson, who has a wealth of experience playing in India.
Williamson made his Test debut against India in Ahmedabad in 2010, scoring a century against a formidable attack featuring Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh. His absence presents an opportunity for Mark Chapman to potentially make his Test debut. Chapman has played 78 white-ball matches for New Zealand and has enjoyed success while touring India with the New Zealand A side.
The mouth-watering series gets underway in Bengaluru, with the second Test in Pune and the final Test in Mumbai. India will be keen to win their home series against New Zealand to strengthen their position in the World Test Championship (WTC) before their tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
New Zealand, on the other hand, are yet to win a Test series in India and will be determined to put up a strong showing against Rohit Sharma and Co.
