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Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has been ruled out of the third and final Test of the series at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai against India. Williamson will stay back in New Zealand where he is undergoing rehabilitation for a groin injury he picked u during Sri Lanka tour.
The decision is a cautious one considering the three-Test series against England at home starting at Hagley Oval, Christchurch on November 28.
Head coach Gary Stead said that Kane is recovering well but he is not ready to return to international cricket. Stead wants him fit for the home series against Ben Stokes-led England.
“Kane continues to show good signs, but isn’t quite ready to jump on a plane and join us,” said Stead.
“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.”
In the absence of Williamson, New Zealand created history in Pune by winning their first-ever Test series on Indian soil. The Tom Latham-led side has also kept their chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final alive.
Williamson’s replacement in playing XI
Williamson’s replacement in the side, Will Young has scored 122 runs from four innings at an average of 40.67. Batting at no.3, he joined forces with Rachin Ravindra to ensure that there is no anti-climax in the run chase of 107 in Bengaluru.
New Zealand aiming for WTC final berth
With five wins and as many losses from 10 Tests, New Zealand are currently fourth in WTC points table with a win percentage of 50. The Test series at home against Stokes' England will be crucial if they are to make WTC final for the second time. England are already out of the WTC final race for the third consecutive time. A win against India in the final Test will also boost their chances of reaching the final.
