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Finn Allen and Adam Milne have been ruled out of New Zealand's tour of Pakistan raising concerns as to whether they will be fit for the T20 World Cup.
Allen suffered a back injury and Milne picked up an ankle problem during training ahead of the team's departure for the five-match T20I series.
Tom Blundell and uncapped allrounder Zak Foulkes have been called in as their replacements. Tom Bruce was considered but made himself unavailable due to family reasons and to continue his county deal with Lancashire, reports https://www.espncricinfo.com.
Allen, the powerful opening batter who has a T20I strike-rate of 163.60, would be certain of his place in New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad. Milne, who has had an injury-hit career, is less assured of a spot in the final 15 for the USA and Caribbean depending on how many quick bowlers are taken.
"We feel for both Finn and Adam, suffering injuries so close to the start of the tour.
They have been strong performers for us in the T20 format since the last World Cup," New Zealand coach Gary Stead said.
"Our support staff and medical networks will be working closely with both players over the next few weeks to complete plans for their treatment and subsequent return to cricket."
The 21-year-old Foulkes took 14 wickets at 16.28 for Canterbury in the 2023-24 Super Smash and had a batting strike-rate of 150. Blundell, New Zealand's Test wicketkeeper, has previously played seven T20Is.