Key Blackcaps bowler Kyle Jamieson has been ruled out of the third and final test against England.
An MRI scan revealed Jamieson has suffered a "stress reaction" in his lower left back and he'll now return home to New Zealand.
The 27-year-old sustained the injury while bowling on day three of the second test against England at Trent Bridge, which New Zealand lost by five wickets. He left the field midway through his 17th over.
Coach Gary Stead expected Jamieson would require four-to-six weeks of rest, before beginning a rehabilitation program targeting a potential return to play in September or October.
Bowler Blair Tickner, who was with the test side in England for the early tour games, has been called into the squad as Jamieson's replacement for the third and final test next week.
Dane Cleaver has received his maiden test call-up as a replacement for wicketkeeper Cam Fletcher, who has also been ruled out of the tour with a grade-two right-hamstring strain.
Jamieson's loss compounds a difficult tour for the Blackcaps, who have seen their World Test Championship defence dealt its knockout blow by the series defeat to Brendon McCullum's rejuvenated England side.
They've already lost Colin de Grandhomme to a foot injury, while captain Kane Williamson missed the second test after testing positive for COVID-19.
"Kyle had played such a big role in the first test at Lord’s and I know how disappointed he was to have had his involvement in the second test curtailed," said coach Gary Stead.
"He's obviously a huge asset for us and we'll be making sure we are patient with his recovery to ensure he returns fully fit with plenty more important cricket still to come later this year."
The third test starts at Headingly on June 23.
