Mathieson called up as cover

Trent Boult was ruled out with an injury

After having lost Corey Anderson, Trent Boult and Adam Milne to unfortunate injuries, the New Zealand team have called up Andrew Mathieson, the Central Districts seamer, as their cover.

Mathieson is a former New Zealand U19 player and leading wicket-taker in the Ford Trophy, 2014-2015, which is New Zealand’s domestic 50-over tournament, where he claimed 31 wickets with Michael Bates being a far second with 19 wickets. He has also been playing club cricket in the UK as Sidmouth's overseas player.

The 25-year-old bowled in the nets the day before the fourth ODI and could not play as a substitute fielder. He is not expected to feature in the final ODI or the T20 that follows.

In normal circumstances, he would not be considered “next-in-line” for selection, and his call-up may be due to the fact that he is already in England and very little cricket remains in the visitor’s tour.

Although, coincidentally, Sidmouth are scheduled to play North Devon in Devon Premier League on Saturday, the same day New Zealand take on England in the final ODI.

Craig Overton, who was to play for North Devon along with Andrew Mathieson are now unavailable on international duty.