Cricket: Taylor and Hira major casualties for Black Caps

New Zealand cricket captain Ross Taylor's shoulder injury has ruled him out of tomorrow's Twenty20 match against the West Indies. Photo / Getty Images.

New Zealand cricket captain Ross Taylor's shoulder injury has ruled him out of tomorrow's Twenty20 match against the West Indies in Florida and there is also a question mark over his involvement in the One Day International series.

In another blow to the Black Caps, who were beaten by 53 runs by the West Indies today, bowler Ronnie Hira will be sent home after dislocating the middle finger of his left hand when attempting a catch off his own bowling. Adding to New Zealand's terrible start to their Caribbean tour, Jacob Oram was also injured but his knee problem is considered relatively minor.

Scans taken after today's match revealed a grade two AC joint injury for Taylor, who suffered the problem when attempting a catch. He was later forced to retire hurt during New Zealand's batting innings.

Black Caps physiotherapist Paul Close confirmed the injury, adding Taylor would not be available to play in the first part of the five-match ODI series in the West Indies.

Close said Taylor would be kept with the squad while he recovers. "Essentially we want to promote the healing process and gradually introduce him to his skill training and get the strength and stability back around his shoulder," Close said.

Kane Williamson or Kyle Mills are possibilities to replace Taylor as captain in tomorrow's second Twenty20 match at the same Central Broward Regional Park venue. A decision on Oram's involvement will be made in the morning.

Close said of Hira's injury: "Ronnie was hit hard on his left hand and suffered a dislocated joint his middle finger.

"He went to hospital where scans showed there wasn't a fracture but the skin has split and he is required to wear a splint. He won't take any further part in the series and will return to New Zealand to undergo further assessment and a period of rehabilitation."