Vettori Ruled Out Of Second Test

Vettori Ruled Out Of Second Test

Daniel Vettori's absence is major blow for New Zealand.

©REUTERS/Anthony Phelps. Picture Supplied by Action Images

New Zealand have suffered a major blow ahead of the second Test against the West Indies, a match they must win to avoid defeat in the two-match series, after talismanic all-rounder Daniel Vettori was ruled out with a groin strain.

Vettori struggled for wickets during the first Test in Antigua, which New Zealand lost by nine wickets, although he was his usual economical self, conceding just 124 runs from 51 overs. His absence means that leg-spinner Tarun Nethula will be in line for a Test debut should New Zealand opt for a like for like replacement. Another alternative is for the Kiwis to bring in seamer Trent Boult if he has recovered from the quad muscle injury which saw him miss the first Test. 

Brendon McCullum said of Vettori injury and the resulting effect on the team: "It's a huge loss, not just the performance on the field which he's done for a number of years consistently and really led us from that point of view, but also what he offers in the change-room and when we're out on the field. You know you've got that experience to call on for some of the younger bowlers.

"Even the batters within the group as well, he's had a phenomenal career and we hope he rests up and gets himself recuperated and comes back in a couple of months’ time for us and we're able to get him back into a team that's performing a bit better than we have of late."

New Zealand second Test squad: Ross Taylor (captain), Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Dean Brownlie, Daniel Flynn, Martin Guptill, Chris Martin, Brendon McCullum, Tarun Nethula, Kruger van Wyk (wicket-keeper), Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson.

© Cricket World 2012