Kane Williamson's Absence Continues: Impact on New Zealand Cricket

Former skipper Kane Williamson will not play in New Zealand's second test against India due to a groin strain. Although the team won the first test without him, Williamson remains in New Zealand working on his recovery. Coach Gary Stead hopes for his return by the third test.

Kane Williamson, the former skipper of the New Zealand cricket team, will miss the upcoming second test against India in Pune, scheduled to begin on Thursday. This decision comes as Williamson continues his recovery from a groin strain, confirmed New Zealand Cricket on Tuesday.

The esteemed batsman remained in New Zealand during the first test, which saw the Black Caps clinching a historic victory in India—achieving such a feat for the first time in 36 years. The injury, initially sustained in a recent series against Sri Lanka, has prevented Williamson from participating in the current tour.

In a news release, Coach Gary Stead said, "We're monitoring Kane and he's tracking in the right direction, but isn't yet 100% fit." The team remains hopeful for his return by the third test in Mumbai in early November, adopting a cautious approach to his recovery process.

(With inputs from agencies.)