Nathan Smith is out for the second Test against Zimbabwe due to an abdominal injury which means Zak Foulkes gets his first Test call up. This is a big chance for the young all-rounder to prove himself.
Smith played alright in the first Test where New Zealand beat Zimbabwe by 9 wickets. He took 3 wickets and 22* before getting hurt on Day 2. The injury turned out to be worse than a minor issue. An MRI showed an abdominal strain which will keep him out for the rest of the series. That’s bad news for Smith who was starting to look comfortable in the Test team.
Foulkes played in the T20I tri-series with Zimbabwe and South Africa recently. He took 2 wickets in 3 games and bowled well and played in the final where New Zealand beat South Africa by 3 runs.
Now the 22 year old will switch to Test cricket for the second Test starting August 7 in Bulawayo. This is a big chance for a player who is still new to international cricket.
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In other news Will O’Rourke is dealing with back stiffness. As a precaution Ben Lister has been called in as a cover in case O’Rourke isn’t ready for the second match.
New Zealand won the first Test easily but with key bowlers injured they may need to rethink their bowling plans. For Foulkes this is a dream come true and if he plays well New Zealand might just find their next red ball star.
