BLACKCAPS opening bowler Chris Martin has been ruled out of the upcoming two-test series in Bangladesh and his place will be taken by Mark Gillespie.

BLACKCAPS selector Dion Nash said that Martin was pain free and making good progress with his hamstring and lower back injury, but had lost some condition in recent weeks.

“With such a big season ahead it would have been foolish to rush Chris back too early. He is better at home working on his fitness and strength and preparing himself for the two-test series against Australia next month,” he said.

Gillespie is already in Bangladesh with the one-day squad.