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New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell played a key role in the side's victory over West Indies in the first ODI of the three-match series. His knock of 119 saw the Kiwis post a 270-run target on the board and this proved to be too much for the opposition, who fell seven runs behind and ended their 50 overs on 262/6. Mitchell was named the Player of the Match for his brilliant hundred which played a monumental role in the Kiwis' 7-run victory.
New Zealand face major setback
However, not all was positive for New Zealand and Mitchell as the latter ended up sustaining a groin strain during the series opener and is now doubtful to participate in the remaining two games. He will be remaining in Christchurch and will soon be undergoing scans. Mitchell's absence can go on to hurt New Zealand quite a bit in the next two games as he is currently one of the team's most in-form batters in the one-day format.
Following Mitchell's injury, New Zealand have decided to call in Henry Nicholls to the squad, The left-hand batter does have quite a bit of experience in ODIs and has so far played a total of 81 games with 2180 runs under his name in the format. Additionally, Mark Chapman is also present in the squad and can potentially replace Mitchell in the playing XI.
New Zealand already without several key players
Notably, Mitchell's injury only adds to New Zealand's injury woes as they are already without several key players for the West Indies ODI series. The likes of Lockie Ferguson, Finn Allen, Glenn Phillips, Will O'Rourke, Mohammad Abbas and Ben Sears are all sidelined due to injuries. Kane Williamson was also not considered for the assignment as he is focused on playing the three-match Test series against West Indies that will commence from December 2.
Meanwhile, it remains to be seen as to if Mitchell will be able to play the next two ODIs. The second game of the series is set to be held in Napier on November 19 while the series finale will be played in Hamilton on November 22.
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