Tim Southee suffers thumb fracture, World Cup campaign in doubt

NZC added that batter Finn Allen, who also picked up an injury while on the pitch as a substitute fielder, had been “cleared of any fracture or break”.

Tim Southee reacts after being injured against England. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee’s World Cup participation is in doubt after New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said he had fractured a bone in his right thumb while fielding during the fourth and final one-day international against England on Friday.

“An x-ray has confirmed that Tim Southee dislocated and fractured a bone in his right thumb while attempting to take a catch in the 14th over of the 1st innings,” NZC said in a statement.

“A timeline for his recovery will be established tomorrow when he undergoes further assessment.”

NZC added that batter Finn Allen, who also picked up an injury while on the pitch as a substitute fielder, had been “cleared of any fracture or break”.

New Zealand trails England 2-1 in the series. It next takes on Bangladesh in a three-match ODI series, which Southee was rested for.

Following its series against Bangladesh, New Zealand will face defending champion England in its opening game at the 50-overs World Cup in India.