NZ vs SL: Neil Wagner Ruled Out Of The Second Test Against Sri Lanka Due To An Injury

New Zealand fast bowler Neil Wagner has been ruled out of the second Test of the ongoing two-match series against Sri Lanka, which is scheduled to be played at the Basin Reserve in Wellington, starting on Friday, March 17. Neil Wagner suffered an injury on day three of the first Test in Christchurch and did not take the field on day four.

Neil Wagner has been diagnosed with a bulging disc in his back and a torn right hamstring and is expected to require at least six weeks to recover. The veteran pacer left the field in the third session of the third day after experiencing severe discomfort in his back and leg. He failed a fitness test on day four but will be available to bat on day five if required.

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We Are All Disappointed To See Him Side-Lined – Gary Stead

Black Caps head coach Gary Stead said the team were feeling for Neil Wagner and that they were disappointed to see him sidelined by injuries.

“We all know how much playing Test cricket for New Zealand means to Neil and we are all disappointed to see him side-lined like this. The fact he was still hoping to play on, carrying these injuries shows you just how determined he is to try and give his all for the team,” Gary Stead said.

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Doug Bracewell Has Been In Strong Form – Gary Stead

Doug Bracewell, who has been in excellent form for the Central Stags this season, has been called up by New Zealand for the next match. Gary Stead believes his skills will complement the rest of the bowlers.

“Doug is a skilful bowler who has been in strong form for the Central Stags across formats this season. We believe his skills will complement the rest of the bowlers we have in the group going into the next Test.”

Bracewell will join fast bowlers Tim Southee, Matt Henry, Blair Tickner, and Scott Kuggeleijn in the squad. Bracewell played his last Test match in 2016 against South Africa at SuperSport Park. He brings more experience to the team, having played in 27 Tests and bagged 72 wickets.

Also read: NZ vs SL: New Zealand Skipper Tim Southee Becomes The Leading Wicket-Taker For New Zealand In International Cricket

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