Kane Williamson of New Zealand practicing action images by Reuters / Andrew Boyers
New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson will miss a second test with England starting at Trentbridge on Friday after a positive Covid-19 test the night before the match.
New Zealand’s cricket said in a statement that Williamson, the country’s best batter, would begin a five-day isolation and be replaced by Tom Latham as captain.
Hamish Rutherford, an experienced season opener from the 20th Twenty20 tournament in the UK, will join the team.
“It’s a shame that Kane is forced to withdraw on the eve of such an important match,” said New Zealand coach Gary Stead.
“We all feel him at this point and know how disappointed he is.”
New Zealand suffered a five-wicket defeat at Rose on Sunday, losing 1-0 in a three-game series. The final test will take place in Headingley from June 23rd.
Blackcaps has already lost the series’ all-rounder Colin de Grandome due to a heel injury. He was replaced by Michael Bracewell on the team.
