Trent Boult ruled out of Hamilton Test

New Zealand pacer Trent Boult has been ruled of the second Test of the two-match series against Pakistan---commencing from November 25 at the Seddon Park in Hamilton---due to a knee injury.

The Black Caps have brought in Doug Bracewell in place of Boult in the squad.

Head coach Mike Hesson said that Boult had "irritation in the joint of his right knee" since the India tour, which the Kiwis went on to lose 0-3. The injury had since aggravated while fielding in the first Test in Christchurch. However, the left-arm pacer did bowl in both the innings of the Christchurch Test and finished with match figures of 5 for 76.

"We were optimistic he would be ready for Hamilton, but during training on Wednesday felt further pain and has subsequently been ruled out of the Test," Hesson was quoted by saying as ESPNcricinfo.

The Black Caps would hope that the 27-year-old pacer recovers in time and is available for the three-match ODI series in Australia, which beginning December 4, but will "continue to monitor him over the coming days".

Matt Henry, who has been the part of the squad for the ongoing Test series, is however, most likely to replace Boult in the starting XI for the Hamilton Test.

The Black Caps are currently leading the two-match series 1-0 following their comfortable eight-wicket win in the opening match in Christchurch.