Arnel misses debut chance; Kiwis announce mostly unchanged squad for second test.

Byline: ANI

Wellington, Mar 23 (ANI): An untimely injury to New Zealand seamer Brent Arnel has dashed his hopes of a Test cricket debut this week against India.

Arnel, who was a surprise call-up for the first Test squad before being released to play for the Knights, bowled only 1.4 overs in his side's first innings against Auckland before suffering a side strain that rules him out of contention for New Zealand.

As a result Arnel's name was missing from the Black Caps squad named today. Jacob Oram's name was also missing as selectors decided against recalling the all rounder as he recovers from an achilles tendon strain, the Waikato Times reported.

Oram, who made himself unavailable for the first Test, has been involved in the State Championship for Central Districts but selection panel convener Glenn Turner said he was not considered.

Captain Daniel Vettori indicated that he would welcome Oram back in the aftermath on India's 10-wicket win at Seddon Park on Saturday, but Turner said he was not yet at full match fitness.

"He's only had a couple of days in the domestic competition, and after talking with him, we agree he'd benefit from more game time to get up to the fitness level needed for the test side," Turner said.

Iain O'Brien, who suffered a side strain while bowling in India's first innings, and batsman Daniel Flynn (bruised hand) will continue to be monitored, although they are expected to be available for selection.

There were no plans to bring in additional players as cover. Wellington spinner Jeetan Patel rejoins the squad after also being released to play in the State Championship.

New Zealand Squad: Daniel Vettori (captain), Tim McIntosh, Martin Guptill, Daniel Flynn, Ross Taylor, Jesse Ryder, James Franklin, Brendon McCullum, Kyle Mills, Iain O'Brien, Chris Martin, Jeetan Patel. (ANI)

Copyright 2009 Asian News International (ANI) - All Rights Reserved.

Provided by Syndigate.info an Albawaba.com company