Franklin called up to replace Bennett

New Zealand Cricket has advised that James Franklin has been called into the BLACKCAPS squad for the remainder of the Test series in India, replacing the injured Hamish Bennett.

Bennett injured his groin while bowling on day one of the drawn Test match against India in Ahmedabad.

Due to the short turn around between games it was decided it is in Bennett’s best interests to return to New Zealand to undergo further testing and rehabilitation.

Mark Greatbatch said: “It’s an unfortunate injury for Hamish, which will see him miss the remainder of the Test series against India. However, it does create another opportunity for James Franklin to come back into the BLACKCAPS squad.

“Franklin showed good form with bat and ball in Zimbabwe where he successfully led New Zealand A to a series win.

“In view of the injury to Hamish and some concerns about Jesse’s ability to bowl in the next match the selectors made the decision to go with an all-rounder.”

Franklin will arrive in Hyderabad on Wednesday 10 November with the second Test starting on Friday 12 November.