In an effort to guarantee his full fitness for the crucial home series against England, New Zealand’s standout batsman Kane Williamson will not fly to India for the last Test match of the current three-match series. While New Zealand hopes to sweep the powerful Indians 3-0 in a historic match, their captain’s long-term health comes first.
Just prior to the India series last month, Kane Williamson had a groin injury when touring Sri Lanka.
He was anticipated to return to the team halfway through the series. But while he was away, the Black Caps won their first Test series in India by winning the first two Tests in a row.
In order to make sure their star batter remains healthy for the forthcoming England series, the New Zealand think tank has chosen to keep him at home when the third Test starts in Mumbai on November 1.
Though he isn’t quite ready to board a plane and come along with us, Kane is nonetheless showing encouraging signals. Head coach Gary Stead stated in a statement that although things appear encouraging, “we believe the best course of action is for him to stay in New Zealand and focus on the last part of his rehabilitation so he’ll be good to go for England.”
He is prepared for Christchurch’s opening Test: Gary Stead
In order to guarantee their place in the World Test Championship final, the Kiwis must win the England series. In that campaign, Williamson’s availability will be vital, and the team management is prepared to forfeit the last Test match in India in order to guarantee that their cornerstone is healthy.
“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,” Stead stated.
It seemed improbable that New Zealand would be in the running for a WTC final spot before to the India tour. However, they are now in the race because of their recent impressive victories. The Kiwis must win all four of their remaining Test matches in order to finish with a 64.29% PCT.
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It will keep them in the running, but it won’t ensure qualifying. Should they fail one of those examinations, their percentage drops to 57.14%, which is insufficient to qualify.
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