Peter Siddle doubtful for New Zealand vs Australia, 2nd Test at Christchurch due to back spasms

Peter Siddle doubtful for New Zealand vs Australia, 2nd Test at Christchurch due to back spasms

Peter Siddle might miss the second Test between New Zealand and Australia at Christchurch after he had suffered back spasms during the Day three of the first Test at Wellington on Monday. Australia thrashed New Zealand in the opening Test by an innings and 52 runs, spoiling Brendon McCullum’;s 100th Test for New Zealand. Siddle picked three wickets in the firast innings before going wicket-less in the second. In the absence of ace pacer Mitchell Starc, it was Siddle and Josh Hazlewood who have been leading Australia’s attack with the other bowlers having just begun their international career. The second Test between New Zealand and Australia that will end the Trans-Tasman series is scheduled to be played from February 20. FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: New Zealand vs Australia 2015-16, 1st Test at Wellington

According to cricket.com.au, Steven Smith is however optimistic about Siddle recovering befoe the second Test. He said, “He’s had a bit of spasm through his back. I was able to keep him on ice. He wasn’t needed in the end. We’ll wait and see how he pulls up over the next couple of days to see whether he’ll be fit for that second Test match,” the skipper added. READ: Ross Taylor, Mitchell Santner ruled out of New Zealand vs Australia, 2nd Test at Christchurch

Meanwhile, James Pattinson who was ignored for the Basin Reserve Test due to shin soreness and the lack of match fitness will be the obvious replacement of Siddle for the Christchurch Test. Smith said, “He’s done quite a lot of bowling this week. He’s had quite a few sessions. I saw him bowl this morning actually and it looked like they were coming out pretty nicely and quite fast. He’s tracking pretty well to be fit for the next Test match.”