KANPUR: New Zealand off-spinner Mark Craig was Monday ruled out of the remaining two Test matches in India with a side strain, prompting the selectors to recall Jeetan Patel as his replacement.
“Craig sustained the injury to his left side while bowling in the second innings of the first Test in Kanpur,” said a statement from New Zealand Cricket.
“He left the field to receive treatment and did not return but remains available to bat” in the first Test in Kanpur which finishes on Monday.
Craig, who claimed two wickets in Kanpur, will return home to undergo a rehabilitation programme and will require four weeks to recover, according to New Zealand coach Mike Hesson.
“We’re really disappointed for Mark, knowing the work he’s put in to prepare for this series. He started well with the ball in the first innings, before developing the side strain,” said Hesson.
Off-spinner Patel last played Test cricket in 2013, but has been impressive for Warwickshire in England’s county championship this year.
“Jeetan is up to speed from a bowling load perspective having recently completed a successful county season so he will be ready for the rigours of Test cricket,” said Hesson.
New Zealand’s second Test against India starts in Kolkata on Friday.
