New Zealand’s cricket team has been dealt a significant setback ahead of their upcoming Test series against India, scheduled to begin on October 16. Fast bowler Ben Sears, who had made a promising start to his Test career, has been ruled out due to a knee injury.
Ben Sears suffered a meniscus tear in his left knee during training while on tour in Sri Lanka. After undergoing scans, it was confirmed that he would not be fit to participate in the series against India. This injury is a disappointment for both Sears and the New Zealand team, given his strong performance during the home summer.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed his disappointment over Sears’ injury. “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,” Stead said. He also mentioned that it remains to be seen how long Sears will be out but hopes for a short recovery period.
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In place of Ben Sears, uncapped Jacob Duffy has been added to the Black Caps Test squad. Duffy, who has represented New Zealand in six ODIs and 14 T20Is, will fly to India on October 16. With an impressive domestic record of 299 first-class wickets, Duffy brings valuable experience and recent form in white-ball cricket.
Stead highlighted the opportunity for Duffy, saying, “It’s an exciting opportunity for Jacob who has been around the Test squad before. With three Tests ahead of us, he has every chance of making his Test debut.” This inclusion reflects the team’s confidence in Duffy’s abilities and his potential to make an impact in the series.
The revised New Zealand Test squad for the India tour includes Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Jacob Duffy, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Kane Williamson (subject to fitness), and Will Young.
