Boult and de Grandhomme ruled out of second Test | Mitchell called in

Northern Districts all-rounder Daryl Mitchell has been called into the BLACKCAPS squad, after injuries ruled Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme out of the second G.J Gardner Homes Test against England in Hamilton.
 
An MRI scan yesterday confirmed Boult had strained one of the muscles overlying his ribs on his right hand-side, but cleared him of any bone stress.
 
Colin de Grandhomme has a tear to his left lower abdominal muscle, sustained during the second fielding innings in the first Test win over England at Bay Oval.
 
Both players will remain at home to rest and begin rehabilitation ahead of the BLACKCAPS departure for Australia on December 7.
 
The injuries pave the way for Mitchell’s maiden call-up to the Test squad following strong recent form in the Plunket Shield.
 
Mitchell will link up with the team today alongside Auckland Aces fast bowler Lockie Ferguson and Canterbury spinner Todd Astle, who rejoin the Test squad after being released to play in the opening rounds of the Ford Trophy.
 
The second Test against England begins at Seddon Park on Friday.