New Zealand Without Kane Williamson for Mumbai Test

New Zealand's cricket team received a major setback ahead of their third Test in Mumbai, where they aim for a whitewash against India. Experienced batter Kane Williamson will not be playing in the Mumbai Test, having already missed the first two matches of the series.

Williamson sustained a groin injury during the Sri Lanka tour and has been undergoing rehabilitation back home since returning. The Kiwis are scheduled to play a Test series against England starting on November 28, and Williamson is opting out of the final Test against India to ensure his full fitness for that series.

Blackcaps head coach Gary Stead commented, "Williamson has shown good progress, but exercising caution will give him a better chance of being fully fit for the England series."

Stressing that Williamson isn’t yet fully prepared, the coach added, "Kane has made good progress but isn’t completely ready to join us."

He further said, "We believe the best thing for him is to stay in New Zealand and focus on the final stages of his rehabilitation so he can be ready for England."