Ben Sears Deepens New Zealand's injury crisis deepens as he ruled out of Champions Trophy
New Zealand fast bowler Ben Sears has been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a hamstring injury, confirmed the team on February 14. This setback adds to New Zealand's injury woes, as they are already managing issues with Lockie Ferguson and Rachin Ravindra.
Sears felt discomfort in his left hamstring during a training session in Karachi, and subsequent scans revealed a minor tear requiring at least two weeks of rehabilitation. Given that he would likely miss most of the group stage, the team opted to replace him with Jacob Duffy, who is already in Pakistan for the ongoing tri-series.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment over Sears' injury, particularly as this would have been his first major ICC event. "It’s always tough being ruled out at such a late stage," Stead said. He emphasized the need for a fully fit player in the squad, noting Duffy's readiness and experience.
Duffy has previously shown promise in international cricket, and his inclusion aims to bolster New Zealand's pace attack as they prepare for their opening match against Pakistan on February 19.
New Zealand Squad for Champions Trophy
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Jacob Duffy, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young