Kiwis confirm Ferguson blow

New Zealand will be without pace debutant Lachie Ferguson for the remainder of the Test series against Australia.

Ferguson injured his calf whilst bowling on the opening day of the match in Perth and will return to New Zealand on Tuesday to begin rehab.

To soften the blow it's expected that left-arm quick Trent Boult will be available after failing to be fit for the series opener.

The Kiwis have other concerns including the lack of form of opener Jeet Raval and also spinner Mitchell Santner.

However, coach Mike Stead was quick to defend Santner.

"Mitch (Santner) has done a wonderful role for us in winning a number of Test matches, certainly in our conditions." Stead said.

"Again, like all positions, we'll evaluate where we're at and work out whether we think it's the right option heading into Melbourne, but we've also got some cover in the squad with Todd Astle."

IMAGE: FILE