Ben Sears will miss the upcoming Champions Trophy because of a hamstring injury. The New Zealand fast bowler experienced discomfort in his left hamstring during a training session in Karachi. Subsequent scans revealed a minor tear that requires at least two weeks of rehabilitation. As a result, Sears would have been available only for the team’s final group-stage match against India on March 2, prompting his exclusion from the tournament.
Sears, who was part of New Zealand’s squad for the ongoing tri-series in Pakistan, bowled 16 wicketless overs across two matches, conceding 104 runs. Jacob Duffy will replace him in the squad. Duffy, who has 18 wickets in 10 ODIs, recently impressed with four wickets in two games against Sri Lanka in a home series.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed sympathy for Sears, acknowledging the disappointment of missing his maiden ICC event. “The short nature of the tournament meant we needed someone fully fit and ready to contribute from the start,” Stead said. He said Sears has immense potential and expects him to recover in time for New Zealand’s home series against Pakistan.
Stead also praised Duffy’s recent performances and readiness for the challenge ahead. “Jacob has been in the tri-series squad, so he’s adjusted to the conditions here and ready for this opportunity,” Stead noted.
New Zealand will face Pakistan in the tri-series final on Friday before opening their Champions Trophy campaign against the same opponents in Karachi next Wednesday.
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