Hamstring injury forces Southee out of Hamilton Test

New Zealand suffered another major blow as fast bowler Tim Southee has been ruled out of the final Test of the three-match series against South Africa due to a hamstring injury.

The 28-year-old sustained the injury during his side's eight-wicket defeat at the hands of South Africa in the second Test in Wellington.

After complaining discomfort at the Basin Reserve, Southee as a precautionary measure went for a scan, which revealed a minor tear on his left hamstring, ESPNcricinfo reported.

While the injury is a minor tear, it is enough to sideline him from the final five-day match of the series beginning at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Saturday.

No replacement has been added to the squad even though it was New Zealand's third injury blow of the series.

Earlier, Ross Taylor and Trent Boult were also ruled out after the opening Test due to injuries to their legs.

Although Boult has bowled lightly in the last couple of days, he still remains a doubtful starter for the final Test.

In case Boult fails to recover in time, New Zealand will have only two frontline seamers - Neil Wagner and Matt Henry - in addition to all-rounders Colin de Grandhomme and James Neesham.