England wicketkeeper-batter Jordan Cox has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against New Zealand starting next week after copping a blow to his hand in the nets.
With Jamie Smith missing the entirety of the New Zealand tour due to the birth of his first child, Cox, 24, was in line for a Test debut as the side’s gloveman in the three-match series which begins in Christchurch on Wednesday (November 28).
However, Cox’s participation in the series opener faced a setback after he was hit on his right hand while batting in the nets before the final day of England’s practice match in Queenstown. He was writhing in pain and was sent for X-rays to the local hospital.
"Jordan Cox has been ruled out from the upcoming Test series against New Zealand after sustaining a fractured right thumb during a net session in Queenstown," read a statement from the ECB. "England will name a replacement in due course," the statement added.
Wishing you all the best in your recovery, @jjordancox ❤️
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) November 24, 2024
Cox has had recent bouts with injuries, having sustained a broken finger during the 2023 Hundred. The injury on Saturday also put his chances of playing as a designated keeper for Essex in limbo this summer. He switched to the club from Kent.
Vice-captain Ollie Pope, who has stood three times behind the stumps in his 52 Tests, kept wickets for the final day of the warm-up match.
Among England's probable replacements for Cox, Phil Salt and Durham’s Ollie Robinson could earn their maiden Test call-ups. Jonny Bairstow is also another possible option, given he still has a year of his central contract. However, he has not played a Test since featuring in his 100th match in India earlier this year.
ECB's statement read: "England will name a replacement in due course."
During the two-day warm-up fixture, England were chasing 201 in the fourth innings. Despite Joe Root (82*) and Stokes (59) being among the runs, the tourists were reduced to 190-9 before the match ended in a draw.
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