Injured McCullum set to miss ODI

New Zealand will take no chances with the fitness of Brendon McCullum heading into the third one-day international against Sri Lanka in Nelson.

The Black Caps captain aggravated a back injury when making a boundary-saving dive in the field during Monday's 10-wicket trouncing of the tourists in Christchurch.

Coach Mike Hesson said the injury wasn't serious but with the hosts 2-0 up in the five-match series he won't risk the 34-year-old if he continues to feel pain from an inflamed disc.

Tom Latham, who joined the squad as cover for the injured Kane Williamson for the first two games in Christchurch, will travel north and could play a third successive game.

"We're hopeful Brendon will be able to take part in Nelson though if he's not right we've got cover there to deal with that," Hesson told reporters.

"He had a stiff back just before the game started. Obviously diving for that one stirred it up. It's a disc issue and history suggests it's 24 to 48 hours, but obviously every disc reacts a little bit differently."

Latham opened the batting in place of McCullum for New Zealand's innings, playing second fiddle as Martin Guptill plundered 93 off 30 balls in reaching 118 off 8.2 overs to clinch a second lop-sided result.

WATCH: Guptill goes ballistic in Christchurch

Hesson says Williamson could make his first appearance of the series in Nelson, having been sidelined with a knee niggle.

Pace bowler Adam Milne is also a good chance to play, having impressed in the opener before missing game two with a sore heel.

Matt Henry, who claimed four wickets in both games, is released from the squad as intended. His place is claimed by the returning Tim Southee.