India vs New Zealand 2019: Martin Guptill ruled out of T20I series
What's the story?
New Zealand opener Martin Guptill has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against India. The Blackcaps have drafted in all-rounder James Neesham as his replacement for the 3-match series.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead affirmed, "Unfortunately Martin hasn't recovered in time for this T20 series - which is very condensed with three games over five days. It's a shame as he's obviously a big part of our white-ball sides, but we've got to look at the big picture and ensure he gets the injury right."
The 47-year-old added, "It's great to have Jimmy coming into the side after some encouraging ODI performances. It promises to be an exciting series."
The background
Guptill is currently nursing a back injury which he had sustained during practice ahead of the fifth ODI at the Westpac Stadium in Wellington. As a consequence, he missed the final ODI and Colin Munro replaced him at the top of the order.
The heart of the matter
According to a NZC release, Guptill has been experiencing 'pain in his lower back'. Ostensibly, he had picked up the injury while throwing a ball during training on the eve of the final ODI.
Having been sidelined from the T20I series, the right-hander will now return home to Auckland and begin recuperation in a bid to regain fitness for the subsequent Bangladesh series.
Guptill's injury-enforced absence has thrown an opportunity towards James Neesham. The seam bowling all-rounder had not been initially named in the T20I squad. However, as a result of a spot opening up and his 32-ball 44 in the Wellington ODI, the left-hander has a chance to prove his credentials in the shortest format.
New Zealand T20I Squad: Kane Williamson (c), Doug Bracewell, Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson (first two matches), James Neesham, Scott Kuggeleijn, Daryl Mitchell, Colin Munro, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor and Blair Tickner (third match only)
What's next?
The first T20I between New Zealand and India will take place on Wednesday at Wellington. The second and third T20Is are slated to be held at Auckland and Hamilton on Friday and Sunday.
Bangladesh's tour of New Zealand is set to begin with the first ODI on February 13 at Napier.