Williamson ruled out of second Test against India, Shami nears full recovery

Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson will miss the second Test against India, which begins on Thursday in Pune, as he continues to recover from a groin strain, according to a statement from New Zealand Cricket on Tuesday.

The Black Caps secured their first Test victory in India in 36 years without Williamson, who stayed in New Zealand to focus on recovering from an injury sustained during a recent series against Sri Lanka.

In Williamson's absence, Will Young batter at number three and made 33 and 48 not out in the first Test in Bengaluru.

New Zealand's Kane Williamson and head coach Gary Stead at a practice session during the 2019 ODI World Cup in England.Reuters

Coach Gary Stead provided an update, saying Williamson is progressing well but is not yet fully fit.

"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," Stead said.

The third and final Test will start in Mumbai from November 1st.

Shami’s recovery on track

Meanwhile, India's fast bowler Mohammed Shami is working towards full fitness after a knee injury ruled him out of the ongoing Test series against New Zealand.

Shami, who underwent heel surgery earlier this year, has now recovered and is pain-free. The pacer plans to play a few domestic matches to regain match fitness ahead of India's upcoming tour of Australia, which starts next month.

Shami, who last played for India in the final of the 50-over World Cup against Australia last year, is eyeing a comeback to the national team.

India hopes to have Shami back in their squad as they prepare for the five-match Test series against Australia, starting from Perth on November 22.

Shami participated in practice during the final day of India's first Test against New Zealand, and when asked if he was fully recovered after his surgery, he confidently replied, "100%."

"It felt great yesterday because I had been bowling with half a run-up on and off since I can't put too much stress on my body," added the fast bowler, who plays first-class cricket for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy.

"Yesterday, we decided that I would bowl properly, and I gave my 100%. It felt great, (and) the results are good. Hopefully, I'll be back on track soon.

"I know what kind of an attack we want for that Test series (against Australia), so it's better I spend some more time on the ground before going.

"If I get fit and I get a gap of eight to 10 days, then it's better I play one or two domestic matches before going to Australia."

India will be relying on Shami’s experience and pace for the crucial Test series down under.