8 October 2008

New Zealand fast bowler Chris Martin has been ruled out of the Test series against Bangladesh after New Zealand Cricket (NZC) opted to allow him more time to recover from hamstring and back injuries.

Martin picked up the injury during a spell with English county side Warwickshire and was ruled out of the One Day International series that begins on Thursday.

"With such a big season ahead it would have been foolish to rush Chris back too early," selector Dion Nash said in a statement. "He is better at home working on his fitness and strength."

Mark Gillespie has been named as his replacement for the Test series.

The first One Day International takes place on October 9th in Mirpur.

© Cricket World 2008

New Zealand In Bangladesh 2008/9