Oct 09,V7N- Kane Williamson, New Zealand's top batsman, is in doubt for the upcoming Test series against India due to a groin injury sustained during the second Test against Sri Lanka, according to New Zealand Cricket on Wednesday. As a result, Williamson will remain in New Zealand to rehabilitate, with hopes of joining the team later in the tour if his recovery progresses as planned.

Sam Wells, the selector for New Zealand, explained that the medical advice recommended rest and rehabilitation to prevent further aggravation of the injury. Mark Chapman, an uncapped all-rounder with experience in New Zealand's white-ball teams, has been named as Williamson's replacement in the squad. Wells highlighted Chapman's strong track record in the subcontinent, particularly in dealing with spin, making him a valuable addition to the squad.

New Zealand faces a daunting challenge without Williamson, especially after their recent 2-0 series defeat to Sri Lanka. Historically, New Zealand has struggled against India in Test series played in the subcontinent, with their last tour in 2021 ending in a 1-0 defeat. The team will be led by Tom Latham, following the resignation of Tim Southee as captain after the Sri Lanka series.

The Black Caps' squad for the three-Test series includes a largely unchanged roster from the Sri Lanka defeat. Michael Bracewell will play in the first Test in Bangalore but will return home afterward for the birth of his second child. Ish Sodhi, born in India, will replace Bracewell for the remainder of the series.

New Zealand Test Squad:
Tom Latham (capt)
Tom Blundell
Michael Bracewell
Mark Chapman
Devon Conway
Matt Henry
Daryl Mitchell
Will O’Rourke
Ajaz Patel
Glenn Phillips
Rachin Ravindra
Mitchell Santner
Ben Sears
Ish Sodhi
Tim Southee
Kane Williamson (rehabilitating)
Will Young

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