New Zealand rule out Kane Williamson for final India Test

Mumbai: New Zealand have opted for a cautious approach with captain Kane Williamson, ruling the star batsman out of the side’s third and final Test against India in Mumbai, set to commence on Friday.

Williamson has been sidelined due to a groin injury he sustained last month against Sri Lanka, preventing him from taking part in New Zealand’s drought-breaking victories in the opening two Tests against India.

Despite their recent success, New Zealand are hesitant to rush back their experienced captain, who has been instrumental in bolstering the team’s World Test Championship (WTC) ambitions for next year’s final.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead confirmed Williamson’s ongoing recovery and expressed optimism about his progress. "Kane continues to show good signs, but isn’t quite ready to jump on a plane and join us," Stead said.

"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 Black Caps’ cautious approach is intended to give Williamson time to fully recover before New Zealand’s upcoming three-match home Test series against England, scheduled to begin in Christchurch next month.

New Zealand currently hold the fourth position in the World Test Championship standings and aim to secure their place in the 2025 final with positive results in their upcoming fixtures against India and England.