New Zealand have suffered two injury blows before the India series. Batter Mark Chapman and fast bowler Zak Foulkes are both out of the T20 matches.
New Zealand host India in five T20s, five ODIs and two Tests. The tour starts with the opening T20 in Christchurch on October 22.
What Happened
Chapman tore his left hamstring during a T20 league in Europe last month. He is expected to be fit for the ODI series. Foulkes hurt his right hip flexor in a training session.
No timeline has been set for Foulkes’s return. Team officials said both players are receiving treatment. The medical team will keep a close eye on their recovery.
Replacements Named
All-rounder Josh Clarkson and fast bowler Blair Tickner have joined the squad. The coach said he was disappointed for the injured pair but excited to give others a chance.
India will be strong favourites at home conditions in reverse. But New Zealand have depth in their squad. The five-match T20 series promises close contests, according to reports.
The tour is one of the biggest of the season for New Zealand. India are always tough opponents at home. The five T20s will be followed by ODIs and two Test matches.
India’s squad is packed with talent across all departments. New Zealand will need their replacements to step up fast. The Christchurch opener should set the tone for the whole tour.
Both injured players will continue their rehab with the team physios. The selectors will review their fitness before the ODI leg. For now, the focus is on getting the T20 series off to a winning start.
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