Head coach Gary Stead said Williamson was showing “good signs” so their aim was to get him fit for the England Tests.

“Kane continues to show good signs, but isn’t quite ready to jump on a plane and join us,” Stead said in the release. “While things are looking promising, we think the best course of action is for him to stay in New Zealand and focus on the final part of his rehabilitation so he’ll be good to go for England.

“The England series is still a month away so taking the cautious approach now will ensure he is ready for the first Test in Christchurch.”

Williamson had suffered the groin injury on the tour of Sri Lanka just before the India series last month.

New Zealand currently lead the Test series 2-0 in India, their first series win in the format in the country, and India’s first Test series loss at home in 12 years. The third Test starts on November 1 in Mumbai.

More to follow…