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Fleming doubtful for first Test

Thursday, May 13 2004

New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming is a doubtful starter for the first Test against England starting next week at Lord's, as a result of a groin injury.

The injury, which first troubled Fleming back in November causing him to pull out of New Zealand's tour of Pakistan, flared up again this week. He carried the injury throughout the New Zealand summer as well, but it didn't get that serious for him to miss any action.

Fleming did take a cortisone injection before leaving for England, however the relief was only temporary, as the soreness in the groin has returned, causing discomfort, especially while running.

Fleming will definitely miss out New Zealand's final warm-up match before the first Test, against Kent. All-rounder Chris Cairns will lead the side instead.

If Fleming doesn't recover enough to be in playing condition, by the start of the first Test, Cairns is the favorite to take over as the interim leader for the Kiwis.

Meanwhile, for the match against Kent, Jacob Oram will be rested after his century against Worcestershire, while Kyle Mills will miss out because of a bad back.

Posted by Sudeep