Patel joins squad on standby for Vettori

New Zealand Cricket has advised that Jeetan Patel has been called in to the BLACKCAPS squad as possible cover for Daniel Vettori, who is expecting the birth of his first child.

Team manager Dave Currie said Vettori and his wife Mary are anticipating the possibility of minor complications associated with the birth of their baby, due shortly.

“In case Daniel is called away at short notice Jeetan has come in on standby,” said Currie. “He will remain with the squad through the One Day International series or until required."

Patel’s place in the New Zealand A squad for its game against the England Lions starting tomorrow at Lincoln has been taken by Northern Districts left arm orthodox spinner Bruce Martin.