New Zealand's Kane Williamson will miss the start of the three-Test series against India due to a groin strain sustained during their recent 2-0 series loss to Sri Lanka. Selector Sam Wells stated that Williamson will undergo rehabilitation before potentially joining the squad later, emphasizing the need to avoid aggravating the injury. In his absence, Tom Latham will lead the team, and Mark Chapman has been named as a cover in the squad. Michael Bracewell will feature in the first Test before returning home, with Ish Sodhi replacing him for the subsequent matches. New Zealand, having struggled in recent tests, including a series defeat in Sri Lanka, aims to turn their fortunes around in India despite the challenge posed by Williamson's absence. The series begins on October 16 at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.