Cricket

Kane Williamson to Miss Third Test Against India, Focuses on Groin RecoveryNew Zealand cricket captain Kane Williamson will not join his team for the third Test against India in Mumbai, opting instead to remain in New Zealand and prioritize his recovery from a groin injury. The decision aims to ensure Williamson's fitness for the upcoming three-Test series against England, commencing on November 28 at Hagley Oval.Head coach Gary Stead confirmed Williamson's progress but emphasized that he is not yet ready for international travel. "Kane continues to show good signs, but isn’t quite ready to jump on a plane and join us," Stead stated.Stead explained the team's cautious approach, prioritizing Williamson's full recovery in time for the England series. "While things are looking promising, we think the best course of action is for him to stay in New Zealand and focus on the final part of his rehabilitation so he’ll be good to go for England," Stead said. "The England series is still a month away so taking the cautious approach now will ensure he is ready for the first Test in Christchurch."New Zealand's impressive performance in the first two Tests against India has secured them a 2-0 series victory. They triumphed by eight wickets in Bengaluru and 113 runs in Pune. The third Test in Mumbai is scheduled for Friday.Williamson's absence from the third Test is a setback for New Zealand, but the team remains confident in their ability to perform well. They will be led by Tom Latham, who has captained the side in Williamson's absence.

Shoriful Islam, Bangladesh's promising left-arm fast bowler, has been ruled out of the second Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi due to a groin injury. The injury has put his participation in the upcoming two-Test series against India next month in jeopardy.According to Bangladesh team physio Bayjedul Islam Khan, Shoriful complained of discomfort in his groin after the first Test last week. Subsequent MRI scans confirmed a Grade 1 left adductor strain, which typically requires around 10 days of recovery. Shoriful has already commenced his rehabilitation.Shoriful's absence is a significant blow to Bangladesh, as he played a crucial role in their 10-wicket victory in the first Test. He claimed three wickets and also contributed with the bat, hitting two sixes in his 14-ball 22.Taskin Ahmed has been drafted into the playing XI for the second Test in Shoriful's place. Taskin is making his return to Test cricket after more than a year.Bangladesh's next assignment is a tour of India, where they will play two Tests and three T20Is. The first Test is scheduled to begin in Chennai on September 19.Bangladesh have a busy schedule ahead of them, with two Tests at home against South Africa in October and a full tour of the West Indies in November and December.Shoriful's injury is a setback for Bangladesh, who have already missed his services in 11 Tests since his debut three years ago. However, the team will be hoping that he recovers in time for the crucial series against India.