The New Zealand cricket team was dealt a big blow ahead of the second Test against India as ace batter Kane Williamson was ruled out due to a groin strain. Williamson picked up the injury during the Test series against Sri Lanka but was added to the Kiwi squad, however, he failed to recover in time for the first Test. It was expected Williamson would be available for the second Test in Pune, but the batter has still not hit peak fitness.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead confirmed that Williamson is making progress, but added he is still not fit enough to play the second Test. Stead though was optimistic that Williamson would be available to play for New Zealand in the third Test.
“We're monitoring Kane and he's tracking in the right direction, but isn't yet 100% fit,” said Stead.
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“We're hopeful to see further improvement over the coming days and have him available for the third Test. We'll give him as much time as possible to get himself ready, but certainly continue to take a cautious approach," he added.
New Zealand are eyeing a historic series win over India. They stunned the hosts in the first Test and would look to repeat the feat in the second Test in Pune from October 24. Williamson's experience of delivering under pressure would have been vital for the Kiwis, but the onus will now be on the new-look side to script history.
Meanwhile, India would also be hoping to bounce back from the eight-wicket defeat in the first Test. The defeat left India reeling in terms of WTC final qualification. They were banking on a 3-0 win over New Zealand for a smooth passage to the WTC final, but the Kiwi win put them in a spot of bother, even though they retained the top position in the WTC table. India now need to win the following two Tests against New Zealand and two Tests in Australia along with at least two draws.