New Zealand Cricket (NZC) today issued an injury update for Dean Brownlie and Ross Taylor who both suffered injuries during the recent National Bank Series against Zimbabwe.
Brownlie’s injury has not healed sufficiently to be considered for selection for the first Test against South Africa while Taylor is near full fitness and will be ready to return in time for the Test.
New Zealand Cricket Physiotherapist Paul Close said: “After discussions with Dean and the medical specialists it is clear he will not have recovered in time for him to be considered for the first Test.
“With the injured finger being on his left hand he is struggling to grip the bat without pain. He is progressing, and has started hitting balls, but needs more time to fully heal before he’s ready for the rigours of international cricket.
“We are pleased with Ross’s improvement and he will have fully recovered from the calf injury in time to lead the team against South Africa.”