New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum has been ruled out of the third ODI against Sri Lanka following his injury during the 2nd ODI. McCullum was injured while diving in order to save a boundary and did not bat at his regular position at the top of the order.
Coach Mike Hesson confirmed that McCullum would be rested for the third ODI. Hesson also added that the injury was not serious, but resting McCullum was just a precautionary measure.
“We’re hopeful Brendon will be able to take part in Nelson though if he’s not right we’ve got cover there to deal with that,” Hesson said.
“He had a stiff back just before the game started. Obviously diving for that one stirred it up. It’s a disc issue and history suggests it’s 24 to 48 hours, but obviously every disc reacts a little bit differently,” Hesson added about McCullum’s situation.
The New Zealand coach also hinted that batsman Kane Williamson would return to the team for the third ODI after struggling from a knee injury.
Another alteration in the team personnel would be that pacer Matt Henry would be released from the squad. Henry will be replaced by Tim Southee, who will make an appearance in the third ODI.