Southee provides injury concern

Tim Southee has emerged as an injury concern ahead of the opening Test at Lord's next week after picking up a foot injury against England Lions which led to a decision that he would not bowl again in the match after lunch on the third day.

Mike Hesson, the New Zealand coach, remains confident that Southee will be fit for the Test match, which begins on Thursday, but the opening bowler will see a specialist on Saturday afternoon to get a more detailed verdict on the problem.

Southee, who did not play against Derbyshire, had not appeared hampered during the second day, where he claimed the wicket of Varun Chopra, and sent down 19 overs before being withdrawn.

The loss of Southee for the first Test would be a significant blow for New Zealand as he has become a key part of their attack and is expected to be a threat with the Duke ball having produced some telling spells during the previous series in March.

If Southee was ruled out, either Doug Bracewell or Neil Wagner, who currently appear to be vying for one place, would both play at Lord's.