Kane Williamson set to miss Bengaluru Test after injury setback

Kane Williamson is set to miss the opening Test against India in Bengaluru after suffering a groin injury during the recent series against Sri Lanka. The injury, which occurred in the second Test in Galle, has delayed his departure from New Zealand, as he needs time for rehabilitation before he can join the team.

The Black Caps have added Mark Chapman to their squad for the three-Test series, which begins on October 16. Tom Latham will lead the side after Tim Southee stepped down as captain following New Zealand's 2-0 defeat in Sri Lanka.

While most of the squad remains unchanged from the Sri Lanka tour, Michael Bracewell will only be available for the first Test before leaving to attend the birth of his second child. Ish Sodhi will replace him for the second and third Tests.

Kane Williamson’s absence is a significant setback for New Zealand, especially given his vast experience in Indian conditions. The team struggled with their batting in Sri Lanka, making Williamson's injury even more concerning for the Black Caps. He will remain in New Zealand to recover but could join the squad later in the series.

New Zealand selector Sam Wells expressed hope that Williamson will be able to return for the latter part of the tour. 

"The advice we've received is that the best course of action is for Kane to rest and rehabilitate now rather than risk aggravating the injury. We're hopeful that if the rehabilitation goes to plan Kane will be available for the latter part of the tour.

"While it's obviously disappointing to not have Kane available from the start of the tour, it provides an opportunity for someone else to play a role in an important series," Wells said. 

Mark Chapman, who has represented New Zealand in 78 white-ball matches, could make his Test debut in Williamson’s absence. Though he has limited first-class experience, Chapman has shown promise, scoring a century for New Zealand A against India A in 2020 and making notable contributions in last summer's Plunket Shield.

Additionally, former Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath will join New Zealand’s coaching staff as a spin-bowling consultant for the India series, following his successful stint in Sri Lanka.

New Zealand will begin their three-match Test series against India in Bengaluru, with the first match set to start on October 16.