New Zealand have made a crucial adjustment to their squad for the upcoming Test series against India, set to begin on October 16. Fast bowler Ben Sears has been ruled out due to a knee 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,” New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said in his official statement.

Ben Sears’ replacement for the Test series against India

Ben Sears, who was part of the initial New Zealand squad, suffered a meniscus tear in his left knee during training while on tour in Sri Lanka. After undergoing scans, it was determined that he would not be fit to participate in the series against India.  In his place, uncapped Jacob Duffy has been added to the Black Caps Test squad.

“It remains to be seen how long we’ll be without him for, but we’re hopeful his road to a full recovery will be a short one. It’s an exciting opportunity for Jacob who has been around Test the squad before. With three Tests ahead of us he has every chance of making his Test debut,” Stead added, expressing disappointment over Sears’ injury.

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Duffy, who has so far 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’s experience and recent performances in white-ball cricket have earned him this opportunity.

New Zealand’s revised Test squad for India tour:

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), Will Young

Also READ: IND vs NZ 2024 – India’s best XI for the Test series against New Zealand

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