England v New Zealand: Tim Southee fit for first Test at Lord's

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New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee

New Zealand bowler Tim Southee has been declared fit for the first Test against England, which starts on Thursday at Lord's.

The 24-year-old suffered a foot injury against the England Lions but has been cleared to play after undergoing scans.

"Tim's fine. It was very much a precautionary response really from us," said Kiwis head coach Mike Hesson.

"We sent him down to London for further investigation, and basically the result was as we hoped."

Southee bowled 14 overs at Grace Road against the Lions, England's second team, last Friday, but experienced discomfort after five more the following morning.

He is his side's most experienced bowler with 71 wickets in 24 Tests.

Hesson added: "He's had some treatment to his left toe, and we're very comfortable he'll be right for the first Test."

New Zealand drew a three-Test series 0-0 at home against England earlier this year and will be aiming to continue their good form from that contest.

"There's certainly a huge level of excitement there - no doubt about that," said Hesson.

"It will be a great experience, regardless of the result, but it will be reviewed a lot more fondly if we perform well.

"We're very much looking forward to having another crack at England, and hope we can put them under pressure again."

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