 "File image of New Zealand pacer Ben Sears. AFP")
New Zealand were dealt an blow on the eve of the three-Test series against hosts India with pacer Ben Sears getting ruled out due to a knee injury on the eve of the first Test in Bengaluru.
Sears had stayed back while the rest of the Black Caps departed for the three-week tour of India, with the right-arm pacer experiencing pain on his left knee during the recently-concluded Test series in Sri Lanka.
The 26-year-old seamer underwent scans on the affected knee back home which revealed a tear to his meniscus, following which he underwent medical consultations and was eventually ruled out of the series that gets underway on Wednesday.
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“However, following the medical advice, the decision was made to rule him out of the series. A plan on the best course of treatment and rehabilitation for the injury will be advised in due course,” New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said.
The Kiwis have roped in Jacob Duffy as his replacement, and the 30-year-old seamer will depart for India on Wednesday, effectively ruling him out of the first Test. Duffy has represented New Zealand in six ODIs and 14 T20Is besides 102 First-Class appearances for Otago, in which he has claimed 299 wickets.
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More Shorts“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,” New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said in a statement.
“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.”
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Stead was Duffy’s experience of playing the County Championship, where he represented Nottinghamshire this summer, would come in handy for the Black Caps.
“Jacob’s recent experience playing for Nottinghamshire in the County Championship certainly pushed his place. His performances in white-ball cricket for the Blackcaps have always been impressive and we’re confident he’ll be able to contribute if called upon,” Stead added.