Tom Latham on Kane Williamson’s Absence Ahead of First Test Against India

The New Zealand cricket team is preparing for their three-match Test series against India, which will kick off on October 16 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. After their disappointing 0-2 defeat in their previous Test series against Sri Lanka, the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC) winners are looking to bounce back. Tom Latham, who has taken over as New Zealand’s Test captain following Tim Southee’s resignation after the Sri Lanka series, will lead the side in India.

As the first Test approaches, Latham addressed the media to share updates on the team and particularly on veteran batter Kane Williamson, who will miss the opening match due to a groin injury. Latham expressed his disappointment at Williamson’s absence but confirmed that Will Young will step into the playing XI to replace him.

Williamson’s Injury and Replacement by Will Young

Kane Williamson’s injury occurred during the second Test of New Zealand’s recent two-match series against Sri Lanka in Galle. Although the injury forced Williamson off the field, he was still named in New Zealand’s squad for the series against India. However, doubts remained about his fitness for the first Test, and Latham has now confirmed that Williamson will not be playing the opening match of the series as he continues to recover.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference in Bengaluru, Latham was quoted saying, "It's disappointing not to have Kane (Williamson) over here. Will Young will play tomorrow. He has been part of the squad for a long time. He has batted from opening to playing at number 3-4. It's an opportunity to put his hands up, he has performed well in the past." Latham’s statement highlights his confidence in Young’s ability to step up and fill the gap left by Williamson’s absence.

Latham’s Thoughts on Leading the Team

Apart from discussing Williamson’s absence, Tom Latham also spoke about the honor and responsibility of captaining the New Zealand team. Latham has taken over the leadership after Tim Southee stepped down following the loss to Sri Lanka. Reflecting on his new role, Latham shared that he feels privileged to lead the side and is looking forward to the challenge.

"It's a huge exciting privilege for me to be in this position, whether I am captain or not, I always try to perform my best for the team and that is certainly not going to change. Yes, there is more responsibility, but I have been in this situation before and have captained here in India and back home as well, so I am excited to get into things and looking forward to it," Latham stated.

His experience in leadership roles, both at home and in previous series, should provide the team with some stability as they face a strong Indian side. Latham’s confidence in his role suggests that he’s ready to lead New Zealand through this challenging Test series, especially without the presence of one of their most crucial players, Kane Williamson.

New Zealand Squad for the India Test Series

Despite Williamson’s absence for the first match, New Zealand will field a strong team, with players like Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, and Matt Henry expected to play key roles in the series. The squad for the series features a blend of experienced players and emerging talents. Here’s the full squad for the three-match series against India:

• Tom Latham (Captain)
• Tom Blundell (Wicketkeeper)
• Michael Bracewell (1st Test)
• Mark Chapman
• Devon Conway
• Matt Henry
• Daryl Mitchell
• Will O’Rourke
• Ajaz Patel
• Glenn Phillips
• Rachin Ravindra
• Mitchell Santner
• Ben Sears
• Ish Sodhi (2nd and 3rd Tests)
• Tim Southee
• Kane Williamson
• Will Young

Looking Ahead to the Series

New Zealand enters the series against India with a point to prove after their recent struggles against Sri Lanka. The absence of Williamson will undoubtedly be felt, but the team’s depth, coupled with the leadership of Tom Latham, provides them with a fighting chance. India, known for its formidable home performances, will be tough opponents, but New Zealand has the potential to compete.

Will Young, who will replace Williamson in the first Test, is no stranger to the international stage, having already played in a variety of batting positions for New Zealand. His inclusion in the playing XI offers him an opportunity to cement his place in the team and contribute to the team’s success.

As New Zealand prepares to face India, the focus will be on how the team adapts to the conditions in Bengaluru and how Latham handles his responsibilities as captain in what promises to be an exciting series. Fans will be eager to see how the Black Caps perform without one of their key players and whether Latham and his squad can rally to deliver a competitive series against one of the strongest Test teams in the world.