New Zealand fast bowler Ben Sears has been excluded from the forthcoming ICC Men's Champions Trophy due to a hamstring injury. Sears was included in New Zealand's squad for the current tri-series in Pakistan. During a training session in Karachi on Wednesday, he experienced discomfort in his left hamstring, and a subsequent medical examination indicated a minor tear, necessitating a rehabilitation period of at least two weeks.

Given this timeline, Sears would only be available for New Zealand's final Group A match against India in Dubai on March 2. Consequently, the management opted to withdraw him from the tournament.

Sears will be replaced by fellow pacer Jacob Duffy, who is already present in Pakistan for the ODI Tri-Series involving Pakistan and South Africa.

“We’re all really feeling for Ben. It’s always tough being ruled out of a major event at such a late stage, and it’s especially tough in Ben’s case given it would have been his first major ICC event," stated New Zealand head coach Gary Stead in an official announcement.

New Zealand begin Champions Trophy campaign on February 19

New Zealand is set to commence their Champions Trophy journey on February 19, facing the host nation, Pakistan, in Karachi. The team, captained by Mitchell Santner, is placed in Group A, which also includes India and Bangladesh.

Gary Stead commented on the situation regarding Ben, stating, "The timelines for Ben's recovery indicated that he would likely be unavailable for most of the group stage. Considering the tournament's brief duration, we deemed it necessary to select a fully fit player. Ben possesses significant potential, and we are confident he will be ready for the home series against Pakistan in New Zealand following a short rehabilitation period."

Stead expressed confidence in Jacob Duffy as a suitable replacement, highlighting the fast bowler's recent performances as evidence of his capability at the international level.

"Jacob demonstrated his competence during the recent home series against Sri Lanka. He has been part of the ODI Tri-Series squad, ensuring he is well-acclimatized and possesses ample experience in these conditions. He is fit and prepared to contribute," Stead remarked.

He also noted that this tournament will mark Jacob's first senior ICC event, promising an exciting few weeks ahead for the young player.

Read Also: Magnus Carlsen’s Remarks on Viswanathan Anand: Vidit Gujrathi Breaks It Down

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!