New Zealand Cricket has confirmed that Kane Williamson will miss the third and final Test against India in Mumbai, opting to continue his rehabilitation from a groin injury. After missing the first two matches, Williamson will remain in New Zealand to prepare for the upcoming home series against England, scheduled to begin on November 28.
This decision reflects a cautious approach to ensure a full recovery. New Zealand's head coach, Gary Stead, shared that while Williamson is making progress, he isn’t yet ready to travel. Stead noted that the team’s priority is for him to stay focused on the last stages of his rehab so that he’ll be fit and ready for the England series. With the first Test against England still a month away, this careful approach is expected to have him fully prepared for Christchurch.
Already victorious in the first two matches against India, New Zealand will aim for a series sweep in the third Test, starting Friday in Mumbai, to boost their standings in the World Test Championship.