You are in > manchester.com  > News > Hoggard ruled out of second Test

Cricket

Hoggard ruled out of second Test

17/05/2008

Matthew Hoggard has been ruled out of the second Test series against New Zealand after breaking his thumb playing for Yorkshire.

Hoggard had earned a recall to the 12-man squad for the first Test but the England selectors chose to stay with the three seamers who finished the tour of New Zealand in March.

But Hoggard's inclusion in the squad was a strong indication that he was still in the selector's plans and was reward for a strong start to the County Championship campaign with Yorkshire.

Ironically it was fellow England bowler Steve Harmison, also trying to work his way back into the side, who broke Hoggard's thumb.

Hoggard sustained the injury while batting in Yorkshire's defeat to Durham in the County Championship on Friday.

It is believed an X-ray has shown Hoggard has fractured his thumb and the bowler is hopeful of a speedy return to action.

He said: "I hope the injury is not too serious and that I can get on the field as soon as the fracture's mended."

An England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) statement said: "He will see a specialist next week to determine the full extent of the injury and the likely rehabilitation period."

Hoggard took 2-27 from 14 overs in the second innings of the match after joining up with Yorkshire following his release by England. Overall this season he has taken 12-216 at an average of 18 in 74.5 overs.

Harmison may now be added to the 12-man squad for the second Test in place of Hoggard.