Scott Styris is heading to South Africa © Getty Images Enlarge
Related Links Players/Officials: Grant Elliott | Scott Styris Series/Tournaments: ICC Champions Trophy Teams: New Zealand

New Zealand have flown Scott Styris to South Africa as cover for Grant Elliott ahead of Saturday's Champions Trophy semi-final against Pakistan. Elliott is expected to play despite his thumb injury, but New Zealand wanted all their bases covered.

"We thought it prudent that we have cover for him just in case he can't play at the weekend," the coach Andy Moles told RadioSport. "So we're flying Scott Styris in from India so he'll be here for cover."

Styris has not officially been added to the 15-man squad but he is the fourth extra player New Zealand have called on during the tournament. Injuries to Jacob Oram (hamstring), Jesse Ryder (groin) and Daryl Tuffey (broken hand) paved the way for James Franklin, Aaron Redmond and Iain O'Brien to join the squad.

The team manager Dave Currie said New Zealand were feeling positive despite all the injuries. "The guys are in good spirits," Currie told NZPA, "and despite the setback of losing players, there's resolve and in some ways it's hardened that resolve."