Wed Oct 16 07:41:27 UTC 2024: ## New Zealand Pacer Ben Sears Ruled Out of India Tour Due to Knee Injury

**Bengaluru, India – October 15, 2024** – New Zealand’s hopes of a strong performance in the upcoming Test series against India have been dealt a blow with the news that pacer Ben Sears has been ruled out of the tour due to a knee injury.

Sears, who experienced pain in his left knee during training in Sri Lanka, underwent scans in New Zealand last week. The scans revealed a meniscus tear, leading to his withdrawal from the series. Uncapped bowler Jacob Duffy has been called up as a replacement.

“It’s disappointing to lose Ben, who had a strong start to his Test career,” said New Zealand head coach Gary Stead. “We’re hopeful his recovery will be swift.”

Duffy, Otago’s all-time leading wicket-taker, has played six ODIs and 14 T20Is for New Zealand. He currently holds 299 First-Class wickets and could make his Test debut in the three-match series.

“Jacob has been around the Test squad before, and with three Tests ahead of us, he has every chance of making his Test debut,” said Stead. “His recent experience in the County Championship and his impressive white-ball performances for the BlackCaps give us confidence that he can contribute.”

The first Test of the series begins on October 16th at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

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