Cricket: Langer ruled out of World 11 match

Australian batsman Justin Langer has been ruled out of the World 11 cricket series against New Zealand with a back injury.

Series organisers today confirmed Langer would miss Wednesday's third one-day match in Hamilton and be replaced by former Australian batsman Greg Blewett. Langer was set to play the third match only.

New Zealand Cricket Players Association executive manager Heath Mills, who has overseen the recruitment of the World 11, said Langer aggravated a prolapsed disc injury in his back while playing for Western Australia this week.

"Cricket Australia asked that Justin be excused from the match to give him more time to recover," Mills said.

The first match of the series is tomorrow at Jade Stadium in Christchurch.

- NZPA