Injury scare for Daniel Vettori

Daniel Vettori sent another twinge of anxiety through the New Zealand cricket camp ahead of Tuesday's opening test against Pakistan today after copping a blow on the right elbow while batting in the nets.

Vettori skipped the majority of the team's training session at University Oval but, encouragingly, he was able to bowl in the latter stages.

The captain had already been in doubt for the first instalment of the three-test series after being concussed by a bouncer during the second one-day international against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi earlier this month.

He is also managing a problem with his left shoulder through the summer before possible surgery.

Vettori was the first to arrive at the nets and after he was struck still did warm-up drills, including skipping, before seeking treatment from medical staff.

A team spokesman expected Vettori would be able to bat during the final training session tomorrow.

The 30-year-old needs to play a leading role if New Zealand are to win the three-test series and overtake Pakistan in sixth place on the International Cricket Council rankings.

- NZPA