New Zealand wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Blundell has been ruled out of the ODI series against Pakistan with left-quad tension. All-rounder Daryl Mitchell, who was initially supposed to join the squad for the T20I series. Will now join the ODI team.

However Mitchell would only be available from Game 2 after completing the mandatory separation.

Tom Blundell Sustains Injury in 4th T20I Against Bangladesh

According to the team physio, Tom Blundell sustained the injury in the fourth T20I against Bangladesh. which requires “a focused period of rehabilitation”.

Nishil Shah says Tom Blundell has been working hard since his injury in Bangladesh. He said, ‘The injury is not where we want it to be. So we feel it is best for him to focus on his rehab, given the cricket heat.

NZ tour of Pak – Tom Blundell ruled out of Pakistan ODIs Daryl Mitchell to join squad | T-10 NEWS https://t.co/xqcGM6Taep

— T-10 World News (@T10WorldNews) September 16, 2021

Tom Blundell to Remain With Team After Timely Recovery for T20Is

New Zealand coach Glenn Pocknall says that with the hope that he will recover in time for the T20Is. Tom will remain with the team.

“Obviously everyone is disappointed for Tom. He is a quality player with a variety of skills. He will be with the team and we hope he will be available again for the T20I series.

“We are fortunate to have someone of Daryl’s quality join us early on for ODIs. He demonstrated last summer what a destructive batsman he is. While also offering another useful bowling option.

With Tom Out, We Lose Our First Choice Back-Up Wicket-Keeping Option:

“With Tom Blundell out, we lose our first-choice back-up wicket-keeping option. However, there are many people in the team who have experience to put in and we will make sure that they are in training if they are called up. Will do the necessary work.”

The three-match ODI series begins in Rawalpindi from September 17 and will be followed by five T20Is.

Also Read: Pakistan to Tour Bangladesh After T20 WC