Cricket: Guptill sidelined for 2-3 weeks

New Zealand batsman Martin Guptill in action, during the Semi-Final match between New Zealand and South Africa, at the ICC Cricket World Cup. Photo / Brett Phibbs.

Injured New Zealand opener Martin Guptill is hopeful of being ready to push for a recall in the first test against England this month, despite picking up a side strain.

Guptill felt a sharp pain in his right side during his spectacular 227 for Derbyshire against Gloucestershire last week. An ultrasound scan revealed a small tear in his abdominal muscle.

Team physiotherapist James Montgomery suggested the injury could sideline Guptill for two to three weeks. The first test starts at Lord's on May 21.

"We are hopeful that we will be able get Martin ready to play at Worcester (starting next Thursday) but we will see how he recovers," said Montgomery.

"With good treatment and a reduced workload, the goal is to get him back on the park for some game time so he is available for selection for the first test."

Guptill said today he was feeling noticable improvement and is optimistic of a speedy return.

"It's feeling a lot better than it was last week. I've been doing some good work with the physio here and getting to being right for the game next week," he said.

Guptill, the last of whose 31 tests was also in England, at Leeds in May 2013 is out for the tour opener, a four-day first-class fixture against Somerset at Taunton starting on Friday, which leaves New Zealand's resources thin.

Several players are still involved in the Indian Premier League. However three players were added to the squad, partly for experience, and partly to act as cover, including seamer Ben Wheeler and Jacob Duffy, while new limited-overs selection, allrounder Mitchell Santner, is also with the squad.