Kyle Mills out for 12 months

Kyle Mills hasn't had much to cheer in recnet times © Getty Images

Kyle Mills, the New Zealand seamer, has been ruled out for up to 12 months with a knee tendon problem which requires surgery.

He was a late call-up to New Zealand's squad in Australia and played just one match, taking 1 for 72 at Perth against the hosts. However, his injury prevented him taking the field again as New Zealand missed out on a place in the finals.

Mills has been unable to sleep for the past week and painkillers have been ineffective so going under the knife is the only option. "He'll have an operation as soon as possible on a patella tendon," John Bracewell, New Zealand's coach, said as the team arrived back at Auckland airport.

"It's devastating news, really - both for Kyle and the team, and also for what's been a two-year programme to build him into one of the leading bowlers in world cricket."

"It's been a hard decision for him but he says he's only going to let down the team if he tries to struggle through the World Cup and can only play every so often."

Bracwell added that a replacement, who will play in the Chappell-Hadlee series which starts on February 16, will be named after consultation with Sir Richard Hadlee in his role as selection advisor.