Vettori unfit, Doull dropped for third Test

New Zealand's hopes of a consolation victory in the third and final Test against Australia in Hamilton have been dealt a blow with young left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori ruled out with injury.

Vettori, who struggled gamely throughout the second Test with a strained back, is one of two omissions for the Test starting Friday at Westpactrust Park, with veteran swing bowler Simon Doull surprisingly dropped. Australia leads the series 2-0 after comprehensive victories at Eden Park, Auckland, and Basin Reserve, Wellington.

The pair has been replaced by the Northern Districts duo of left-arm spinner Bruce Martin and right-arm paceman Daryl Tuffey. Martin has been the leading wicket-taker in Shell Trophy matches this summer, claiming 28 wickets at 13.60 in five matches, while Tuffey has taken 17 wickets at 22.52, whilst also scoring an 89 not out.

NEW ZEALAND: Stephen Fleming (captain), Nathan Astle, Chris Cairns, Matthew Horne, Bruce Martin, Craig McMillan, Shayne O'Connor, Adam Parore, Mathew Sinclair, Craig Spearman, Daryl Tuffey, Paul Wiseman, (12th man to be named).