New Zealand have suffered a big blow ahead of the second Test against England with news that experienced all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme will miss the remainder of the series through injury.
De Grandhomme hurt his right plantar fascia (heel) on the third day of the first Test against England at Lord's and scans subsequently revealed a tear to the affected area.
The 35-year-old will require between 10 to 12 weeks to recover, with fellow all-rounder Michael Bracewell drafted into the New Zealand squad as a direct replacement for the final two Tests of the series.
While New Zealand coach Gary Stead was disappointed to lose a player with the experience of de Grandhomme, he believes Bracewell is more than capable of stepping up and filling the void.
"It’s a real shame for Colin to suffer this injury so early in the series," Stead said.
"He’s a massive part of our Test side and we’ll certainly miss him.
"It’s great to be able to call on someone like Michael who’s been with the squad for the past month and is match ready."
The second Test commences at Trent Bridge on Friday, with New Zealand looking to reverse their five-wicket loss to England in the opening Test and pick up some valuable World Test Championship points.
New Zealand are currently seventh on the WTC Standings with a win percentage of 33.33 percent and just one place ahead of England in eighth.
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