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Just a day prior to the first Test of the three-match series against India, New Zealand have been dealt with a massive blow as Kiwi pacer, Ben Sears has been ruled out of the series due to a knee injury. The Black Caps took to social media to confirm the update around Ben Sears, who will now miss the upcoming series.
Notably, Sears ruling out has added to New Zealand’s injury list with Kane Williamson also doubtful for the opening Test. The veteran Kiwi batter, who has been named in the squad despite a groin injury, did not travel with the squad and his participation in the second and third Test still hangs in doubt.
Jacob Duffy to replace Ben Sears in New Zealand Test squad
With the Tom Latham-led side dealing with injury blows, the side have called in Jacob Duffy as Sears’ replacement. “Sears experienced pain in his left knee while training during the recent Test series in Sri Lanka and underwent scans in New Zealand last week,” the Black Caps revealed in its statement. “His departure to India was delayed after scans revealed a tear to his meniscus and the first available medical consultation was sought in the hope that he might have been cleared. However, following the medical advice, the decision was made to rule him out of the series,” the statement further read.
“We’re obviously disappointed for Ben who made a strong start to his Test career during the home summer and offers a genuine pace option. It remains to be seen how long we’ll be without him for, but we’re hopeful his road to a full recovery will be a short one," Head Coach Gary Stead said on Sears withdrawal. “It’s an exciting opportunity for Jacob who has been around Test the squad before. With three Tests ahead of us he has every chance of making his Test debut,” Stead further added.
New Zealand’s Test squad for India series
Tom Latham (Captain), Tom Bundell (wk), Michael Bracewell (1st Test), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rorke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Jacob Duffy, Ish Sodhi (2nd and 3rd Test), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young
