New Zealand’s Test squad for their upcoming tour of India has suffered a setback with the withdrawal of fast bowler Ben Sears due to a knee injury. Sears, who made his Test debut against Australia earlier this year, experienced pain in his left knee during the recent Test series in Sri Lanka. Scans revealed a tear to his meniscus, ruling him out of the three-match series against India.
Jacob Duffy, who has yet to make his Test debut, has been called up as Sears’ replacement. Duffy, 30, has played six ODIs and 14 T20Is for New Zealand and has an impressive 299 first-class wickets to his name. He is expected to leave for India on Wednesday morning, the first day of the first Test.
In Sears’ absence, New Zealand’s fast-bowling attack will likely consist of Tim Southee, Matt Henry, and Will O’Rourke. Ajaz Patel is expected to be the primary spin option, with allrounders Mitchell Santner, Rachin Ravindra, and Michael Bracewell also providing spin support. Glenn Phillips can also offer part-time spin if needed.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment over Sears’ injury but remained optimistic about Duffy’s potential contribution. “It’s an exciting opportunity for Jacob, who has been around the Test squad before,” Stead said. “With three Tests ahead of us, he has every chance of making his Test debut.”
Duffy’s recent experience playing for Nottinghamshire in the County Championship is believed to have played a role in his selection. Stead praised Duffy’s performances in white-ball cricket for the Black Caps and expressed confidence in his ability to contribute if called upon.
New Zealand’s tour of India begins with the first Test in Bengaluru on February 22. The series will then move on to Pune and Mumbai for the second and third Tests, respectively.
