Blackcaps captain Vettori doubtful for England opener
Daniel Vettori injury threatens preparations of New Zealand
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Friday, 01, Feb 2008 09:30
New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori may miss the start of the Twenty20 and one-day international series against England due to an ankle injury.
Vettori, 29, suffered the problem in training this week and will undergo intense treatment in order to get him fit for the first match between the two sides next Tuesday.
The tourists begin their bid for a third successive away series victory at Auckland's Eden Park next week, following surprising wins in India and Sri Lanka in 2007.
And the blow of losing the inspirational Vettori, who is also a useful all-rounder as an off-spinner and dangerous middle-order batsman, could be crucial to the home side's hopes of starting the series well.
"He will join the Blackcaps when they assemble in Auckland tomorrow, where he will be assessed by medical staff," said Blackcaps general manager Lindsay Crocker.
"A decision on his availability will be made next week, ahead of the opening game of the England tour at Eden Park."
Off-spinner Jeetan Patel has been called up as cover, while wicketkeeper-batsman Brendon McCullum will captain the side if Vettori fails in his bid to be fit.