Off-spinner Jeetan Patel was called in by New Zealand to replace Mark Craig, who has been ruled out of the remaining two Tests against India with a side strain. Patel last played for the Test side in 2013 and has been putting in some match-winning performances for Warwickshire in the English county championship.
New Zealand coach Mike Hesson said it was important to have an off-spinner in India, and Patel fitted the requirement. "Jeetan is up to speed from a bowling load perspective having recently completed a successful county season - so he will be ready for the rigours of test cricket," Hesson said. "He'll also add invaluable experience to our young spin group." Patel has taken 69 First-Class wickets in England this year at an average of 24.
Craig injured his left side while bowling in the second innings of the first Test in Kanpur. "We're really disappointed for Mark, knowing the work he's put in to prepare for this series. He started well with the ball in the first innings, before developing the side strain," said Hesson.
Hesson said Craig would need four weeks to fully recover, and the spinner will fly back to New Zealand to start his rehabilitation programme after the first Test.
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