Thigh injury forces Vettori to sit out of second Test against Windies

Wellington: New Zealand`s miserable cricket tour of the West Indies has taken another downward turn with veteran spin bowler Daniel Vettori ruled out of the second Test with injury.

Vettori strained the adductor muscle in his right thigh midway through the first Test in Antigua, which the Black Caps lost by nine wickets. Team physiotherapist Paul Close said there was no chance of the 32-year-old being fit for the second Test starting in Kingston on Friday, news.com.au reports. “It was managed during the match but further assessment has indicated he will not be fully fit in time for the next Test. He will require a rest from bowling and his return date will be determined by how well he responds to the treatment,” Close said in a New Zealand Cricket statement. Vettori will return home where he will undergo rehabilitation. The absence of Vettori could pave the way for a Test debut for leg spinner Tarun Nethula. West Indies pace bowler Ravi Rampaul also has been ruled out with a groin injury. The West Indies are seeking their first series win against New Zealand since 1996. ANI