New Zealand's Mark Chapman ruled out of 2nd ODI against Pakistan

New Zealand's Mark Chapman has been ruled out of the second Chemist Warehouse ODI against Pakistan in Hamilton on April 2 due to a right hamstring injury sustained while fielding in the series opener in Napier.

An MRI scan confirmed a grade one tear, requiring a short rehabilitation period. Chapman, who scored a career-best 132 in the first ODI, will return to Auckland for recovery and aims to be available for the third and final ODI at Bay Oval on April 6.

In his absence, Tim Seifert has been called up to the squad. Seifert was the leading run-scorer in the recent KFC T20I series against Pakistan, amassing 249 runs at an average of 62.

BLACKCAPS coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment over Chapman’s injury but remained hopeful about his return for the final match.

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“It’s obviously disappointing news for Mark after a really special innings in the opening ODI in Napier,” Stead said.

He added that Seifert’s recent T20 form made him a strong addition to the squad.

“With several new faces in this squad, it’s great to be able to call on a player of Tim’s experience. He’s in good form and provides another strong top-order batting option heading into an important match tomorrow,” Stead stated.