A minor groin strain has forced Daryl Mitchell out of the remainder of the ODI series against the West Indies, dealing a setback to the New Zealand team. Mitchell, a standout performer for the Black Caps this summer, suffered the injury during the series opener where he scored a century. Scans confirmed a tear, prompting his withdrawal to ensure a full recovery before the Test matches. Head coach Rob Walter acknowledged Mitchell’s crucial role and expressed that his form would be missed in the upcoming crucial fixtures. However, Walter also confirmed that the injury is minor and Mitchell is expected to be fit for the Test series. To fill the void, the experienced Henry Nicholls has been drafted into the ODI squad. Nicholls has been performing exceptionally well in the domestic Ford Trophy and his recall is a testament to his current form. The team management is eager to integrate him, anticipating he will be ready to contribute if selected. New Zealand currently holds a 1-0 lead in the series and will be determined to seal the victory, even without Mitchell’s dynamic batting.
