IND vs NZ: Why Kane Williamson isn't participating in the first Test match in Bengaluru – Explained

It is a big blow for the New Zealand team as Kane Williamson will not be available for their opening Test match against India in Bengaluru. A groin strain suffered during the second Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle has kept the 34-year-old, one of New Zealand's most prolific batters and a former captain, out of the series opener. There is a clear leadership and batting gap in the Black Caps' lineup as they get ready to start their three-Test series without Williamson.

Ahead of the First test match between India and New Zealand the current Test captain Tom Latham is under additional pressure to rely on a less seasoned batting lineup as a result of the loss of Williamson, who is renowned for his ability to anchor innings. The 34-year-old is the top run scorer in New Zealand, having amassed 8,881 runs at an average of 54.48 in 102 games. He has also scored 32 hundred, the most recent of which was in February against a reserve South Africa team.

The absence of Kane Williamson from the top order presents a serious challenge for New Zealand's batting against the powerful bowlers of India. How Latham and his squad respond to their batting issues will be crucial, particularly on what may be difficult Indian wickets.

Although the addition of Will Young to the squad gives optimism, it is unclear if the Black Caps will be able to stave off India's unrelenting bowling assault in the first Test. Without one of their most dependable players, the series opener will be a significant test of Latham's leadership and New Zealand's capacity to adjust to difficult circumstances.

Mark Champman to take the place of Kane Williamson

For both teams, the series versus India is vital. A victory will help India maintain their standing in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, particularly as they get ready for their next Border-Gavaskar Trophy visit to Australia. In the meanwhile, New Zealand has never won a Test series in India, despite its legendary achievements elsewhere in the world. The Black Caps will try to rectify that by facing a formidable Indian team captained by Rohit Sharma.

However, Williamson's injury allows other players to take his place. With rumours that he would make his Test debut in Bengaluru, Mark Chapman is the first choice to fill the vacancy. Chapman has a strong record for New Zealand in white-ball cricket and has played effectively for the New Zealand A team in India in the past.