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Cricket

Kiwis suffer setback as Mills ruled out of deciding Test

20/03/2008

New Zealand have suffered a setback ahead of the series-deciding Test match against England with their leading wicket-taker Kyle Mills being ruled out through injury.

The fast bowler has failed to overcome a knee injury and will be forced to sit out the game at McLean Park beginning on Friday.

The 29-year-old had been carrying the injury throughout the series but has since complained of increased soreness in his knee.

Mills, who took ten wickets in the first two Tests, said: "This is just in the back of the knee. It all started in the Twenty20 game at Eden Park, the sand based outfield is very soft. I just dove into it and jammed up really. Ever since then it's been niggling me ever since."

Uncapped swing bowler Tim Southee, 19, may now take his place.

England meanwhile received a boost with James Anderson declaring himself fit after he twisted his knee playing football during a warm down session after the second Test.

Anderson claimed he was still suffering discomfort from the injury but would play on regardless.