Wed Oct 16 06:21:54 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Pacer Ben Sears Ruled Out of India Test Series Due to Knee Injury

**Bengaluru, India** – New Zealand’s hopes of a strong showing in the upcoming Test series against India have taken a blow with the news that pacer Ben Sears will miss the entire series due to a knee injury.

Sears, who had impressed in his brief Test career, complained of pain in his left knee while training during the recent Sri Lanka series. Subsequent scans revealed a meniscus tear, forcing him to withdraw from the Indian tour.

Replacing Sears in the squad is Jacob Duffy, a seasoned all-rounder with experience in both ODIs and T20Is. Duffy, who has 299 first-class wickets to his name, is yet to play a Test match for New Zealand but is expected to be available for selection.

New Zealand coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment over Sears’ absence but acknowledged Duffy’s potential. “We’re obviously disappointed for Ben who made a strong start to his Test career during the home summer,” Stead said. “It’s an exciting opportunity for Jacob who has been around the Test squad before. With three Tests ahead of us, he has every chance of making his Test debut.”

The first Test match of the series is scheduled to begin in Bengaluru on October 16th. New Zealand are already dealing with the absence of star batsman Kane Williamson, who is recovering from an injury. The series, however, remains a key opportunity for New Zealand to demonstrate their strength in the longer format of the game.

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