New Zealand fast bowler Ben Sears has been ruled out of the Test series against India just before the first match in Bengaluru due to a knee injury. The management has selected uncapped Jacob Duffy as his replacement for the three-match series.
Ben Sears was included in the squad that recently toured Sri Lanka for a two-match Test series. Although he didn’t play, he reported left knee pain during training for the second Test in Galle. After undergoing scans in New Zealand last week, it was discovered that he has a meniscus tear.
There was some optimism that he would recover in time for the India series, but based on medical advice, he has been ruled out completely, prompting New Zealand to name a last-minute replacement.
“BLACKCAPS pace-bowler Ben Sears has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against India due to a knee injury. A plan on the best course of treatment and rehabilitation for the injury will be advised in due course,” a statement by New Zealand Cricket read.
Sears’ replacement, Duffy, is not expected to be available for the first Test since he will only be joining the squad on Day 1 in Bengaluru.
“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.”
“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,” New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said ahead of the first Test.
New Zealand have sufficient pace bowling options to manage the first Test. Veteran Tim Southee and rising star William O’Rourke took on the seam bowling duties during their recent tour of Sri Lanka, while medium pacer Daryl Mitchell is also on hand if needed.
Ben Sears made his Test debut earlier this year against Australia
The 26-year-old is considered one of the key bowlers in New Zealand’s transitional phase. He debuted in the home Test series against Australia, taking five wickets in his only match to date.
New Zealand are eager to improve their performance after being whitewashed by Sri Lanka. The Blackcaps are already missing star player Kane Williamson, at least at the start of the series, due to a groin injury.
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