New Zealand pacer Ben Sears ruled out of India tour due to knee injury

New Zealand right-arm pacer Ben Sears has been ruled out of upcoming three-Test series against India due to a knee injury.

opening Test begins here on Wednesday.

Sears's departure to India was delayed after he experienced pain in his left knee during New Zealand’s recent tour of Sri Lanka. Scans back home revealed a tear to his meniscus, prompting medical consultations in hopes he could be cleared to play.

“However, following medical vice, decision was me to rule him out of series. A plan on best course of treatment and rehabilitation for injury will be vised in due course,” New Zealand Cricket said.

Jacob Duffy has been called in as his replacement and uncapped 30-year-old right-arm fast bowler will leave for India on Wednesday.

Duffy has so far played six ODIs and 14 T20Is for Kiwis and in 102 First-Class outings he has claimed 299 wickets.

"We’re obviously disappointed for Ben who me a strong start to his Test career during home summer and offers a genuine pace option," New Zealand he coach Gary Ste said in a statement.

“It remains to be seen how long we’ll be without him for, but we’re hopeful his ro to a full recovery will be a short one. It’s an exciting opportunity for Jacob who has been around Test squ before. With three Tests ahe of us he has every chance of making his Test debut.”

Ste hoped Duffy’s experience in County Championship would be beneficial for player.

"Jacob's recent experience playing for ttinghamshire in County Championship certainly pushed his place. His performances in white-ball cricket for Blackcaps have always been impressive and we’re confident he'll be able to contribute if called upon,” he said.