New Zealand all-rounder Corey Anderson and wicketkeeper BJ Watling are doubtful for the second Test match against England in Leeds, which starts from Friday.
Both Anderson and Watling fought a late battle for New Zealand in the second innings of the first Test at Lord's which they lost by 124 runs. Both players scored half-centuries that went in vain as they got out in quick succession. Watling did not stand behind the wickets after Day 1 of the first Test as back-up wicketkeeper Tom Latham guarded the stumps. Watling was feeling uncomfortable even when he was batting in both the innings, while he scored those two half-centuries.
Anderson and Watling will have to undergo fitness tests ahead of the second Test match at Headingley and prove their fitness.
"BJ is not 100 percent, clearly his knee is still an issue. He struggles to push off and get a lot of power. He's a 50-50 at this stage and we'll just have to keep monitoring him," New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson was quoted as saying by the official website of Cricket Australia.
Luke Ronchi might make his Test debut at the age of 34 for New Zealand if Watling fails to make it in time because of his knee injury.
Meanwhile, Anderson has been suffering from a back injury that he picked up during the first innings of the first Test at Lord's. Anderson's injury made it difficult and added extra pressure on his fellow New Zealand bowlers who struggled during the second innings to get the England batsmen out. Anderson was seen suffering during his knock of 67 runs in the second innings as well.
"There will be a lot of rest and recovery. First test for five months so there's a lot of sore bodies and it's a matter of not trying to train too much," added Hesson.
New Zealand will look to bolster their attack with Doug Bracewell or Neil Wagner, if Anderson too is deemmed unfit for the second Test against England at Headingley.
