Kane Williamson’s participation in the highly anticipated Test series against India is going to be delayed owing to a groin issue. The skipper of New Zealand, who was hurt in the second Test matchup with Sri Lanka, will stay in the country to recover in the hopes of returning to the team later in the series. On October 9, New Zealand Cricket released a statement confirming this news.
Sam Wells, a selector for New Zealand, offered his perspective on the choice, saying, "The medical staff has recommended that Kane rest and recover to prevent aggravating the injury." We're still hoping he'll be fit for the second half of the India series.
Mark Chapman, an uncapped Test player, has been called up by New Zealand to fill in for Williamson. With six centuries to his name and an outstanding first-class average of 41.9, Chapman has demonstrated his mettle in the white-ball game. His formidable record against spin, especially when playing in sub-continental conditions, gives him the perfect substitute for the difficult upcoming series.
"Mark has shown his ability to handle spin in international cricket, and his domestic performances in the Plunket Shield, including a century against India A, make him well-prepared for the upcoming series," Wells stated. Michael Bracewell, meantime, will be accessible for the first Test before going back to his house to give birth to his second child. Bracewell will be replaced by Ish Sodhi for the remaining games.