Major blow for New Zealand as key player ruled out of second ODI against Pakistan

New Zealand has been dealt a major blow ahead of the second ODI against Pakistan as in-form middle-order batter Mark Chapman has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury.

Chapman, who was awarded Player of the Match for his match-winning innings of 132 runs, sustained the injury while fielding during second innings. Following scans, it was confirmed that Chapman has a grade-one hamstring tear, forcing him to return to Auckland for rehabilitation.

Despite being sidelined for the upcoming match, the left-hander remains hopeful of recovery and is still in line to feature in the third ODI, scheduled to take place at Mount Maunganui on April 5.

In Chapman's absence, New Zealand has called up wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert, who was in excellent form during the recent five-match T20I series against Pakistan. Seifert scored 249 runs at an impressive average of 62.

Head coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment over Chapman's injury but reassured fans that it wasn't a serious setback. 

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

“We’re thankful that the hamstring injury is only minor, so we’re hopeful that he will complete his rehabilitation in time for the final match of the summer in the Mount,” he added. 

New Zealand squad for second ODI against Pakistan: 

Henry Nicholls, Muhammad Abbas, Adithya Ashok, Michael Bracewell (c), Tim Seifert, Jacob Duffy, Mitch Hay (wk), Nick Kelly, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Will Young.