IND vs NZ: Unfit Kane Williamson Ruled Out of Mumbai Test, Likely to be Available For England Series

Add as a preferred source on Google

Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the upcoming India vs New Zealand 3rd Test in Mumbai as the batter continues to recover from the groin issue at home and is pencilled in to be available for the England Tests next month.

Having missed the first two Test victories against India, Williamson, who has been battling a groin complaint he picked up against Sri Lanka last month, is set to miss the final Test, scheduled to be held at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai from Friday (November 1).

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Tuesday (October 29) provided a Williamson injury update in the lead up to the Mumbai Test, stating the batter is showing good signs in recovery, but is not fit enough to play.

"Kane continues to show good signs, but isn't quite ready to jump on a plane and join us," Stead was quoted as saying by ICC as the head coach also revealed a potential return date for Williamson.

"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."

Will Young, who filled in for Williamson in the first two Tests against India, is expected to continue as the number three batter as New Zealand eye a historic series white-wash against India in their own backyard.

It is hoped Williamson will be fit for New Zealand's three-match home series against England that starts at the end of next month as the Blackcaps chase a possible World Test Championship Final spot after boosting their chances with the two wins in India.

New Zealand currently occupy fourth place on the World Test Championship standings and can still reach the 2025 final with positive results over their remaining fixtures against India and England.

The Kiwis will host England in three Tests, starting with the opener in Christchurch from November 28 - December 2 followed by the second Test in Wellington from December 6-10. The series will conclude in Hamilton with the final Test set to be staged from December 14-18.