BLACKCAPS pace bowler Adam Milne has been ruled out of the upcoming One-Day International series against England and will be replaced by Ben Wheeler.
The 23-year-old, who suffered a heel injury during the ICC Cricket World Cup, has failed to fully recover.
The Devon Hotel Central Stags player has been continually monitored by New Zealand Cricket and in turn was ruled out of the series which includes five ODIs from June 9 – 20.
BLACKCAPS coach Mike Hesson felt for Milne who has been through a frustrating period.
“It’s been a hard time for Adam,” said Hesson, during the BLACKCAPS' First Test at Lord’s.
“He has worked really hard to get back to full fitness, but unfortunately he is still suffering pain and is unable to bowl at his best. He is a young man and has a long career ahead of him, so we are focused on making sure he is 100 per cent fit before he returns.”
Milne has been impressive in the early stages of his ODI career for New Zealand; he has played 22 ODIs, bowling at more than 150km per hour on a consistent basis at an economy rate of 5.11.
Ben Wheeler is now in line for an ODI debut
Meanwhile Wheeler, who picked up a five wicket bag playing for the New Zealand XI against Somerset, has been added to the BLACKCAPS squad and is in line to make his debut.
Hesson said that Wheeler is an exciting prospect.
“He showed great composure against Somerset and he has a big future. It will be good to have him in the BLACKCAPS ODI squad to continue his development.”
The BLACKCAPS first ODI will be played at Edgbaston on June 9.
BLACKCAPS ODI Series v England
June 9 Edgbaston, Birmingham
June 12 The Oval, London
June 14 Rose Bowl, Hampshire
June 17 Trent Bridge, Nottingham
June 20 Riverside Ground, Durham
