Jacob Oram's latest back injury has ruled him out of the second and final cricket test against Bangladesh.
He will watch the first day unfold in Mirpur tomorrow before returning home, where New Zealand team medical staff will assess scans taken in the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka.
Those scans
were inconclusive so team management have decided Oram should return home to be examined by Rob Campbell, who has previously treated the injury-plagued allrounder.
"We haven't been able to get an entirely accurate diagnosis over here," said team manager Lindsay Crocker.
"He's feeling a little bit more comfortable but the sensible decision is he goes home to get an accurate comparison with the other pictures [scans] he's had in the past.
"Rather than risk playing him, we want an accurate diagnosis. We don't know what we're dealing with."
Oram's troubles began late on day three of the first test in Chittagong on Sunday, which New Zealand eventually won by three wickets.
He complained of soreness in the lower back after stumps and was not required to bowl again.
Oram attended training in Dhaka yesterday but did not participate.
South African-born allrounder Grant Elliott is a logical replacement.
He stood in for Oram when he made his test debut - and solitary cap to date - against England in March.
A final decision will be made after the pitch at the Sher-e Bangla National Stadium is scrutinised.
If more pace is deemed appropriate, Mark Gillespie will come into contention.
Oram has a history of back ailments, though it was hip and hamstring issues that sidelined him during the home-and-away series with England.
Oram played a significant role in Bangladesh's first innings in Chittagong - delivering 20 overs for the concession of a mere 14 runs.
- NZPA
