IND vs NZ Test Series: New Zealand fast bowler Ben Sears has been ruled out of the Test series against India due to a knee injury. This information was given in a statement by the Blackcaps on Tuesday. Jacob Duffy has been included in the team in place of Sears for the 3-match series starting in Bengaluru on October 16.

Sears complained of pain in his left knee during training during the Sri Lanka series and underwent tests in New Zealand last week. His trip to India was delayed after scans revealed a meniscus injury. New Zealand Cricket took medical advice and hoped the fast bowler could make it to the team, but doctors advised New Zealand Cricket to rule him out of the series.

Who is Sears' replacement, Duffy?

Duffy, who has been called in place of Sears, will leave for India on Tuesday. 30-year-old Duffy has not played any Test match for New Zealand yet, he has played 6 ODIs and 14 T20 matches so far. Duffy has 299 first-class wickets to his name and he may also get a chance to debut. New Zealand coach Gary Stead said that he is disappointed to see Sears out, but is excited about the possibility of including Duffy as an option. Stead admitted that Duffy has a chance to make his Test debut during the series.

New Zealand team for the Test series against India

Tom Latham (captain), Tom Blundell (wicketkeeper), Michael Bracewell (first Test only), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Jacob Duffy, Ish Sodhi (second and third Tests only), Tim Southee, Kane Williamson, Will Young.