Glenn Phillips Out Of Zimbabwe T20I Tri-Series Due To Groin Injury

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has confirmed that Glenn Phillips has been ruled out of the Zimbabwe Tri-series, also featuring South Africa, due to a groin injury. He joined the New Zealand team in Harare after his stint with the Major League Cricket (MLC) with Washington Freedom. However, he was assessed upon his arrival in Zimbabwe and upon inspection, it was revealed that it would take a few weeks for him to fully recover.

Tim Robinson, who was among the players who were a cover for those returning from MLC, will stick with the team. He scored an unbeaten 75 in New Zealand's first match of the tri-series against South Africa in Harare on July 16 (Wednesday), earning him the Player of the Match award in his side's 21-run victory.

New Zealand head coach Rob Waler said that he felt for Phillips, who scored 186 runs in eight innings at a strike rate of 139.84 in the MLC. “It’s obviously disappointing to lose someone of Glenn’s calibre,” said Walter.

“Much like Finn [Allen], we really feel for Glenn and that he misses out on this series.

“We know he was eager to get out on the field for the Blackcaps, and unfortunately, he won’t be able to do that for this series.

“We know he’ll work hard to get himself back onto the park, and I look forward to when that happens.”

Phillips' replacement for the two-match Test series, starting July 30, will be announced in due course. Along with Phillips, Mitchell Hay and James Neesham, who were also covering for the MLC players, will also return home.