Kane Williamson has tested positive for Covid-19 to miss the second Test against England

After testing positive for Covid-19 on the night of the match, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson will miss the second Test against England, which begins on Friday at Trent Bridge.

According to New Zealand Cricket, Williamson, his country’s top batsman, will be placed in isolation for five days and replaced as captain by Tom Latham.

Hamish Rutherford, an experienced opener currently playing in a domestic Twenty20 competition in England, will join the squad.

“It’s such a pity Kane has to withdraw on the eve of such a crucial match,” New Zealand coach Gary Stead said.

“Right now, we’re all concerned about him, and we know how disappointed he’ll be.”

New Zealand lost by five wickets at Lord’s on Sunday, falling behind 1-0 in the three-match series. The final test will begin on June 23 at Headingley.

Colin de Grandhomme, the Black Caps’ all-rounder, has already been ruled out of the series owing to a heel injury. Michael Bracewell took his place in the squad.