Duffy Replaces Injured Sears in NZ Champions Trophy Squad

New Zealand's Champions Trophy squad faces a key change as Jacob Duffy steps in for injured Ben Sears. Sears' hamstring injury rules him out of the tournament, paving the way for Duffy, who is already in Pakistan, to make his mark. The squad is set for its opener against Pakistan.

New Zealand has made a strategic adjustment to its Champions Trophy squad following a hamstring injury sustained by Ben Sears, barring his participation. Jacob Duffy, a right-arm seamer, has been named as Sears's replacement ahead of the tournament's opening match against Pakistan on Wednesday.

The setback came after Sears reported discomfort in his left hamstring during the team's initial practice session in Karachi. Subsequent scans revealed a minor tear, requiring a rehabilitation period of at least two weeks. With such a timeline, Sears is expected to potentially recover only by New Zealand's final Group A face-off against India in Dubai on March 2.

New Zealand Cricket's head coach, Gary Stead, expressed empathy for Sears, stating the disappointment of being ruled out of a major event at the last moment, especially for someone on the cusp of their first significant ICC event. Given the short nature of the tournament, replacing Sears with a fully fit player was deemed necessary.

Jacob Duffy, already based with the team in Pakistan due to his inclusion in the ODI tri-nation series, has just 10 appearances with the Black Caps since his debut in July 2022. The 30-year-old has claimed 18 wickets in the 50-over format, displaying an average of 25.94 and an economy rate of 6.25.

Duffy last played for the New Zealand team in early January, where he took two wickets against Sri Lanka. Stead stated confidence in Duffy's abilities, highlighting his recent performances and readiness for his first senior ICC tournament.

Joining Duffy in the squad are players such as captain Mitchell Santner, Michael Bracewell, and Kane Williamson among others. The New Zealand team is geared up to take on Pakistan in their opening match, with high expectations set for the tournament.

(With inputs from agencies.)