Blackcaps selector Gavin Larsen has cast doubt over Tom Latham's immediate one-day-international career, giving the strongest indication yet that he'll drop out of the side for the remainder of the South African series.
Since taking over the wicketkeeping duties, Latham has had a torrid time at the crease, making just nine runs in five innings.
"I feel for him," Larsen told Trackside Radio.
"I feel for the way he's got out two or three times where he's picked out fielders with not bad shots. But that's cricket and yes he's in a bit of a slump."
A fast start is vital to the side's chances and with Martin Guptill fit and power-hitter wicketkeeper batsman Luke Ronchi waiting in the wings, Latham falling out of the side looks to be already decided on.
"Mike and Kane will assess the conditions but I think it’s a strong option that Tommy [Latham] will slide out and Ronchs [Ronchi] will come in."
Larsen was a little downcast when asked about Latham's future in the side, suggesting it might not be an easy task to regain his spot.
"Tom is very professional, he's got a great work ethic, we've all seen his talent.
"It's not that long ago that he smacked 140 in an ODI. He was our best ODI batsmen I thought in India in really tough conditions and he's a champion bloke.
"I'm convinced he'll be back."
The fourth ODI is in Hamilton on Wednesday and is a must-win if the Blackcaps are going to stay in the series.
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