Dunedin: New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor has been ruled out of the first ODI against Bangladesh due to “a small tear in his left hamstring”, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced on Wednesday.
Taylor suffered the injury while fielding on the final day of the Central Stag’s Plunket Shield victory over the Wellington Firebirds on Sunday.
All-rounder Mark Chapman has been added to the Black Caps squad for Saturday’s series opener as batting cover for Taylor.
Chapman, 26, has played six ODIs for New Zealand, averaging 32.20 with a high score of 124 not out.
New Zealand remain hopeful he will be fit in time for the second ODI on Tuesday.
“It’s a shame for Ross to have this happen on the eve of a series,” New Zealand coach Gary Stead said.
“It’s a small tear and we’re hopeful after some rest and rehabilitation we can get him fit for the second game in Christchurch. It’s an exciting time for Mark who’s come in and performed well recently for the T20 side, so we have full confidence he can do the job if called upon,” he added.
Taylor’s absence means New Zealand will be without two of their most senior batters for the opening match of their ICC World Cup Super League campaign, with captain Kane Williamson sitting out the Bangladesh series with an elbow injury. (UNI)
