Ind v NZ: Big setback for Kiwis, Mitchell McClenaghan ruled out of ODI series

New Delhi: New Zealand received a double setback even before the start of the India tour. A day after fast bowler Adam Milne was ruled out of the ODI series, another frontline seamer Mitchell McClenaghan has been declared unfit for the limited overs series against India starting from October 16. A New Zealand Cricket (NZC) spokesperson confirmed the news to stuff.co.nz on Thursday. The five match ODI series will be followed by a three match Test series, which starts from September 22. McClenaghan, who played a crucial rule in the Kiwis road to the World T20 semi-final has not played a fifty over game for his national side after a nasty eye injury against Pakistan kept him away from action. McClenaghan was hit by an Anwar Ali bouncer, which sneaked through the gap between the visor and grill of his helmet. The 30-year-old fast bowler has been the leader of the pack along with Trent Boult and Tim Southee. He has taken 82 wickets in 48 ODIs and was also the second highest wicket taker in the 2013 Champions Trophy in England. The left-arm fast bowler’s absence will raise a few concerns for the New Zealand selectors ahead of the crucial India tour. Injuries to Milne and McClenaghan might open the doors for Doug Bracewell, who will be there for the Test series. The black caps however, will be boosted with the comeback of all rounder Jimmy Neesham.