Neesham ruled out of Test series

New Zealand's decimated bowling stocks have been dealt another blow, with allrounder Jimmy Neesham set to miss the remainder of the Test series against Australia with a back injury.

The 25-year-old Neesham joins spearhead Tim Southee on the sidelines, with Southee unable to bowl in Australia's second innings of the Gabba Test with his own back problems.

Neesham struggled to make an impact for the Black Caps at the Gabba, taking 1-50 from 11 overs in Australia's first innings, and 0-61 off just nine overs in the home side's second innings.

Batting at number six, he contributed just three in New Zealand's first innings before being bowled by Mitchell Starc.

"Jimmy has worked hard to get back to fitness following his injury earlier this year, but at this stage still experiences discomfort when bowling extended loads,” New Zealand coach Mike Hesson said.

"Jimmy will return to New Zealand for further medical assessment and we’ll continue to monitor his situation.

Neesham will bat in New Zealand's second innings at the Gabba on day five on Monday, with the Black Caps starting the day at 3-142 and needing a further 362 runs for an unlikely victory.

Fast bowler Mitchell McClenaghan has been called into the Black Caps squad for the remainder of the series as Neesham's replacement. The 29-year-old McClenaghan, a left-arm quick from Hastings, is yet to make his Test debut, and will join the squad in Perth ahead of this week's second Test.

"Mitch has the ability to run in all day, bowl quick spells and has experience on the international stage," said Hesson.

"He’ll bring a lot to the group and is obviously very excited to come and join the squad."

Southee's irritated disc is still being assessed by team management, with paceman Neil Wagner joining the NZ touring squad as cover.