New Zealand have been dealt an injury setback ahead of their upcoming ODI series against India, with key players Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra ruled out as they continue their recovery from injuries.
Chapman is sidelined with a left hamstring injury, while Ravindra is recovering from a right shoulder problem. Both players will miss the Hero VIDA ODI Series Powered by Ai+ Nova Smartphone, with the BLACKCAPS confirming changes to their squad for the five-match series.
Tim Seifert, who was initially selected for the fourth and fifth ODIs, has now been included for the entire series. Henry Nicholls will join the squad for the first three matches, while Dean Foxcroft has been called up for the final two games.
Nicholls earned his selection following an impressive performance in Canterbury's second Ford Trophy match against the Wellington Firebirds, where he scored 119 to register his 13th List A century. Foxcroft will join the team after completing the New Zealand A red-ball series against India A.
Recent medical assessments have provided further clarity on the recovery timelines for the injured players. An MRI scan confirmed that Chapman requires another two weeks of rehabilitation before he can return to full fitness. Ravindra, meanwhile, needs additional recovery time before his shoulder is ready for the demands of fielding in white-ball cricket.
Matt Henry is set to join the squad today, with his match readiness to be assessed. Matt Fisher, who was originally selected for ODIs four and five, will now remain with the squad throughout the series as an additional bowling option.
BLACKCAPS head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment at losing two important players but welcomed the opportunity to bring experienced and emerging talent into the squad.
“Everyone knows what an asset Mark and Rachin are to this side so it’s a shame they have to miss this series,” said Walter.
“I caught up with Mark last week and although he’s disappointed he’s working hard to get back on the field.
“With Rachin, his shoulder hasn’t quite recovered to a position where he could field comfortably in white-ball cricket, so with the Test series later this month we don’t want to take any undue risks.
“We’re pleased to bring in Henry who is no stranger to this side, and Dean who recently featured in the ODIs against the West Indies."
The updated BLACKCAPS squads will see Mitchell Santner continue as captain across both stages of the series.
Updated BLACKCAPS ODI squads
ODIs 1–3
ODIs 4 and 5
The BLACKCAPS squad is scheduled to assemble in Auckland today as preparations begin for the opening ODI, which will be played at Eden Park on Wednesday.
Tickets for the series are available through tickets.nzc.nz.