Ross Taylor’s health would not be risked for the series-deciding ODI on Saturday as the team looks ahead to two tests against England, coach Mike Hesson has said. A hobbling Taylor scored an unbeaten 181 to lead New Zealand to a five-wicket win in the fourth match in Dunedin on Wednesday despite suffering a recurrence of a leg injury that left him limping between the wickets. Taylor’s innings ensured the hosts would go into the final match at Hagley Oval with the series levelled at 2-2.
“It needs a bit of time to get rid of those aches and pains and then we can make an assessment on the detail of the injury,” Hesson told.
“We need to know the extent of it and whether it’s one of those injuries that can get worse or whether you can grin and bear it. We’re just not sure yet.
“Once we know that we can make an educated decision over whether it is worth the risk or whether he genuinely needs a good break before the tests.”
