New Zealand's Kane Williamson ruled out of second Test against India

Kane Williamson, New Zealand's prolific batsman, has been ruled out of the second Test against India due to a groin strain.

The injury, sustained earlier, has not yet healed, forcing Williamson to sit out of the crucial match. His absence will be a significant blow to New Zealand as they face India in the ongoing Test series.

The former captain was included in the tour squad, but delayed his departure and missed the first Test in Bengaluru, which New Zealand won by eight wickets.

New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said in a statement that Williamson was making progress, but was still not ready.

"We're monitoring Kane and he's tracking in the right direction, but isn't yet 100 percent fit," he said.

"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."

The second Test begins on Thursday in Pune.

Williamson, who is New Zealand's greatest Test run-scorer, experienced groin discomfort during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle last month.