New Zealand have suffered another injury setback ahead of the final Test in Hamilton against South Africa, as their pace spearhead Trent Boult has been ruled out of the contest after failing to recover from a groin injury. The fast-bowler had also missed the second Test in Dunedin due to the injury he sustained in the first Test.

The hosts, who are 1-0 down in the three-match series, will also the miss the services of Tim Southee (hamstring) and veteran batsman Ross Taylor (calf tear).

The Black Caps have called up uncapped all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn as a cover for Boult for the upcoming match. Last year, Kuggeleijn made himself unavailable for national selection after he was charged with rape. But his rape charges were dropped when the verdict was read on February 27. The 25-year-old returned to Northern Districts side after being freed of all the charges and is currently the third highest wicket-taker in the Plunket Shield with 31 at 25.48.

Meanwhile, Auckland pacer Lockie Ferguson was not considered for selection due to an injury he sustained in the current round of Plunket Shield.

“Trent did everything possible to get himself ready for this Test and is extremely disappointed to be missing out,” selector Gavin Larsen said.

“While he has made good progress, after training yesterday we spoke with medical staff and it was agreed that Trent required a little further time to be ready for the demands of Test cricket. Not having Trent or Tim available tests the depth of our squad, but we’re confident of the job that Neil and Matt can do for us.”

“Scott will come in as cover having consistently finished as one of the top wicket-takers in the Plunket Shield in recent seasons.

“Not having Trent or Tim available tests the depth of our squad, but we’re confident of the job that Neil and Matt can do for us,” he concluded.

The third and the final Test will start on March 25.