NZ vs ENG: Boult, de Grandhomme ruled out of Hamilton Test

In a big blow for New Zealand, pacer Trent Boult and all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme have been ruled out of the second Test against England in Hamilton. The Kiwis lead the two-match series 1-0 after inflicting an innings defeat on the visitors in Mount Maunganui.

Boult only bowled one over on Day 5 of the Test match and walked off the field after experiencing pain in his ribs. Colin de Grandhomme has also suffered a muscular injury, tearing his left lower abdominal muscle. Grandhomme was a key contributor in New Zealand’s win, playing an aggressive knock of 65.

New Zealand Cricket released a statement confirming the injuries, which read:

“An MRI scan yesterday confirmed Boult had strained one of the muscles overlying his ribs on his right-hand side but cleared him of any bone stress. Colin de Grandhomme has a tear to his left lower abdominal muscle, sustained during the second fielding innings in the first test win over England at Bay Oval.”

All-rounder Daryl Mitchell has been called up the to the squad as de Grandhomme’s replacement. Lockie Ferguson and Todd Astle who were released to play in the domestic competition will also rejoin the squad. It is likely to be a toss-up between Ferguson and Matt Henry to replace Boult in the playing XI.

The pair will now focus on their rehabilitation with a high-profile tour of Australia coming up. The Kiwis will play three Test matches and three ODIs against their Trans-Tasman rivals starting on 12th December.

New Zealand squad: Tom Latham, Jeet Raval, Kane Williamson(c), Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, BJ Watling(w), Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Tom Blundell, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Daryl Mitchell, Todd Astle