New Zealand head coach Gary Stead on Tuesday (October 22) confirmed that ace batter Kane Williamson won’t be able to feature in the second Test against India as he continues to recover from a groin strain.

Williamson sustained the injury during the Test tour of Sri Lanka last month, and is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

Having defeated India by eight wickets in the opening Test in Bengaluru, the Kiwis have taken a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The second Test is scheduled to played in Pune from Thursday (October 24).

“We’re monitoring Kane and he’s tracking in the right direction, but isn’t yet 100% fit,” Stead said in a statement issued by New Zealand Cricket.

“We’re hopeful to see further improvement over the coming days and have him available for the third Test.

“We’ll give him as much time as possible to get himself ready, but certainly continue to take a cautious approach.”

Kane Williamson experienced groin discomfort during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, which New Zealand lost by an innings and 154 runs to concede the series 2-0. Uncapped batter Mark Chapman was named in the 16-member squad as cover for Williamson.

It remains to be seen if Williamson recovers in time to return for the third and final Test against India, slated to be held in Mumbai from November 1 to 5.

New Zealand squad:

Tom Latham (c), Tom Blundell (wk), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young