Patel called in for doubtful Vettori

Daniel Vettori could miss New Zealand's Twenty20 against England at Eden Park this Tuesday after injuring his right ankle in state training on Thursday. The off-spinner Jeetan Patel, who was in the ODI squad already, has been called up as cover.

The problem already rules out Vettori of the state Twenty20 final where his side, Northern Districts, will take on hosts Central Districts. Instead, Vettori will head to Auckland to link up with the national squad and will then be assessed by medical staff, the New Zealand board said.

A decision on his availability will be made next week, ahead of the opening game of the England tour in Auckland. Brendon McCullum, the wicketkeeper-batsman, will captain the team should Vettori not be available.

"He'll join the Blackcaps when they assemble in Auckland tomorrow, where he will be assessed by medical staff," said New Zealand's general manager Lindsay Crocker. "A decision on his availability will be made next week, ahead of the opening game of the England tour at Eden Park."

Should Vettori miss the match, his absence will be a big blow for the side, given that he has established himself as a dangerous Twenty20 player.