Styris in doubt for Champions Trophy

Scott Styris, the New Zealand allrounder, is doubtful for the Champions Trophy in India next month after injuring his back while playing for Middlesex against Yorkshire. New Zealand are due to name their 14-member squad for the tournament tomorrow.

Lindsay Crocker, New Zealand's general manager, said that the selectors were unsure of the extent of the injury. "We don't quite know how bad it is but we should do by Thursday," Crocker told the Dominion Post. "It's a back problem, something is playing up which he's not happy about, which is unfortunate."

Before Styris was injured, the selectors were anticipating a full squad to choose the final 14 from. Shane Bond, who has been suffering from a knee injury among other niggles, has been passed fit as have Daniel Vettori and Jacob Oram both of whom had back problems. Michael Mason, the Central Districts fast bowler, is the only player from the preliminary 30-man squad to be ruled out by injury. He has been replaced by Northern Districts fast bowler Graeme Aldridge.

New Zealand's Champions Trophy campaign kicks off on October 15 when they play South Africa in Mumbai.