Otago wicketkeeper Derek de Boorder has broken his finger and will miss the rest of the season.
De Boorder was set to be named in the Otago side to play Wellington in a four-day match at the University Oval beginning tomorrow but broke the middle finger of his left hand while practising yesterday.
The injury is expected to take four to six weeks to heal.
Albion wicketkeeper-batsman Shaun Haig will take the gloves in de Boorder's absence, with University-Grange all-rounder Sam Wells coming into the squad to bolster the batting.
Otago stand-in coach Mark Bracewell said it was huge disappointment for the promising player, who transferred from Auckland last season.
New Zealand Under-19 left-arm spin bowler Nick Beard has been included in the 12 but will likely carry the drinks, with the pitch expected to suit the four-pronged pace attack of Neil Wagner, James McMillan, Mat Harvie and Warren McSkimming.
Indian test batsman VVS Laxman will make his Otago debut.
The silky strokemaker has been released by the Indian touring party to play some first-class cricket in preparation for the three-match test series against New Zealand beginning in Hamilton later this month.
His presence will greatly enhance a top order which is missing Black Cap Neil Broom and former test opener Aaron Redmond.
With Redmond on duty with New Zealand A, Hamish Rutherford gets an opportunity to add to his three first-class appearances and will open the batting with the skipper, Craig Cumming.
Otago all-rounder Ian Butler and Brendon McCullum are also unavailable due to national commitments.
It will be Bracewell's first match in charge.
He has taken over the reins from Mike Hesson for the next three weeks while the latter is away coaching New Zealand A.
Left-hander Greg Todd returns to the starting XI after the disappointment of missing selection for the twenty/20 final.
