Karachi, Pakistan – February 14, 2025
New Zealand has suffered a setback ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as fast bowler Ben Sears has been ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring tear. The injury, sustained during a training session in Karachi, has forced the Black Caps management to make a last-minute squad change, with Jacob Duffy named as his replacement.
Sears’ Injury and Recovery Timeline
The 24-year-old pacer felt discomfort in his left hamstring during New Zealand’s practice session on Wednesday, February 12, ahead of the tri-series match in Pakistan. Subsequent medical scans confirmed a minor tear, requiring a minimum of two weeks of rehabilitation.
While initial projections suggested Sears could return in time for New Zealand’s final group-stage match against India on March 2, the team management, after consultation with medical experts, opted to withdraw him from the squad entirely.
“We’re all really feeling for Ben,” said New Zealand head coach Gary Stead. “It’s always tough being ruled out of a major event at such a late stage, and it’s especially difficult in Ben’s case given it would have been his first major ICC event.”
Sears’ Recent Performance and Tournament Impact
Sears featured in both of New Zealand’s league-stage games in the tri-series but endured a challenging run, conceding 104 runs in 16 overs without taking a wicket. Despite his recent struggles, his ability to generate raw pace and his youthful energy would have been an asset in New Zealand’s Champions Trophy campaign.
His absence further weakens New Zealand’s pace-bowling depth, especially with Lockie Ferguson and Matt Henry carrying the bulk of the fast-bowling responsibilities.
Jacob Duffy Named Replacement
To bolster their pace attack, New Zealand has called up Jacob Duffy as Sears’ replacement. The 29-year-old seamer, who was already part of the tri-series squad, is known for his ability to swing the ball early and contribute in clutch situations.
Duffy’s recent performances have earned him the trust of the selectors, with New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confident in his ability to deliver under pressure.
New Zealand’s Bowling Options for the Champions Trophy
With Sears out, New Zealand’s pace attack now features:
✔ Trent Boult – The leader of the attack, experienced in all formats.
✔ Tim Southee – Veteran seamer, brings leadership and new-ball expertise.
✔ Lockie Ferguson – Express pacer, crucial in the middle overs.
✔ Matt Henry – Reliable first-change bowler.
✔ Jacob Duffy – Swing bowler, offers variety and depth.
Duffy will likely serve as a backup option, but with the Champions Trophy format demanding high-intensity cricket, he may get opportunities depending on match conditions and workload management.