A day prior to the commencement of their India tour, New Zealand has suffered an injury setback as fast bowler Ben Sears has been ruled out of the Test series. The opening Test match is to be played on Wednesday in Bengaluru and Sears will not be part of the tour because of a knee injury. They have included uncapped bowler Jacob Duffy as the replacement.
Sears started to feel pain in the left knee while he was training during the last Test series in Sri Lanka and had to get an MRI done in New Zealand last week.
“His departure to India was put on hold after a tear to his meniscus was seen on scans and the earliest medical examination was sought. He was advised about the status of his fitness prior to sailing but going by the medical advice given, he was withdrawn from the engagement New Zealand Cricket mentioned in a release.
New Zealand’s head coach Gary Stead regretted losing Sears, but is optimistic the absence will not be prolonged.
“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 is not clear how long we will be without him for, but we are going to be quite hopeful that it will be a short road back to full health for him” Stead said.
Duffy is the all-time leading wicket taker for Otago, having registered 299 First Class wickets. He has played six ODIs and 14 T20Is for New Zealand and currently has 299 First Class wickets to his name.
“It’s an exciting opportunity for Jacob who has been around the squad before. With three Tests ahead of us he has every chance to make his Test debut,” said Stead.
“Most recently, Jacob had a stint with Nottinghamshire in the County Championship which did certainly enhance his chances to cement a position. Have no doubt about his impressive performances in all formats of white – ball cricket for the BLACKCAPS If he is needed, we’ re certain he’ll be able to help,” he continued.
The first Test of the three-match series gets underway on October 16 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium located in Bengaluru.
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