Napier [New Zealand]: New Zealand opener Martin Guptill has been ruled out of the second ODI of the ongoing Chappell-Hadlee series against Australia to be played in Napier on Thursday due to a hamstring problem.
The swashbuckling opener picked up the injury during the thrilling opening match in Auckland, which the Black Caps won by six runs. Guptill had scored 61 valuable runs for his team in that match.
“Martin felt tightness in his left hamstring while fielding yesterday and after being monitored over the last 24 hours it’s become apparent he won’t quite be ready for Napier,” New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
“He’ll remain with the team and we’ll continue to monitor him ahead of the third ODI in Hamilton,” he added.
Northern Districts batsman Dean Brownlie, who has not played any international match for New Zealand since late 2014, has been included into the squad as cover for Guptill.
The Napier ODI will be followed by the concluding match to be played in Hamilton on Sunday. (ANI)