New Zealand’s preparations for the upcoming three-match ODI series against England have been hit by an injury setback as the fast bowler Kyle Jamieson ruled out after suffering left side stiffness during practice. The Black Caps, who face England in the series opener on Sunday (October 26), will announce a replacement for the pacer after the first round of the Ford Cup one-day competition.
The injury blow forces New Zealand to change their bowling strategy
Jamieson, one of New Zealand’s leading seamers, complained of post-bowling discomfort during a practice session, prompting medical staff to intervene immediately. Head coach Rob Walter stressed the need to carefully manage workloads during a home season, with management deciding not to take a quick chance at the height.
“Kyle had a bit of stiffness with him after bowling today and we didn’t want to take any chances at this stage of the summer.” Walter said in an official statement. “We felt this one-day series gave him the best chance to sit back and be ready for the West Indies tour starting on the 5th in Auckland.”
The coach’s statement echoes New Zealand’s cautious approach in recent years with a string of injury setbacks, including Jamieson, a long-term injury concern for 2023. That said, he once again leaves a gap in New Zealand’s PACE attack, especially in seamer-friendly conditions with his ability to bounce and move.
Except for Jamieson, the team management will look at Matt Henry, Jacob Duff and Nathan Smith To shoulder the responsibilities of PACE. Henry in particular is expected to lead the new ball attack supported by Daryl Mitchell and Rachin Ravindra who are crucial in the middle stages.
The ODI series against England will also serve as a testing ground for new formations and young players, including Zac Foulkes, who won his maiden call earlier this year.
The Black Caps will be looking to bounce back from their recent white-ball defeat and will be keen to strengthen their squad ahead of the West Indies tour in early November.
New Zealand squad for England
Mitchell Santher (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, will be juniors.
The first ODI between New Zealand and England at Mt Maunganui will test the Black Caps’ restart and depth without their star pacer, Kyle Jamieson, following Baydganui and Wellington.
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