New Zealand pair racing against the clock to be fit for World Cup

Coach Darren Bazeley told New Zealand news website Stuff on Monday that Thomas will miss the friendlies against Haiti on Tuesday and England on Saturday while recovering from a hamstring injury.

Bell will miss at least the Haiti match due to a calf problem.

Bazeley is hopeful both will be available for their World Cup opener against Iran on June 15 but their absence is a setback for the team's midfield planning.

"It is unfortunate (Thomas) probably will not get the chance to push himself forward in these next two games and others have that opportunity, which does not help him, but he is a good player," Bazeley said of the Netherlands-based player.

With the two players unavailable, Alex Rufer and rookie midfielder Lachlan Bayliss are likely to start in midfield alongside regular Marko Stamenić against Haiti in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Bazeley said he intends to give most of his squad game time against Haiti, who have qualified for their first World Cup since their debut in 1974.

New Zealand will also face Egypt and Belgium in the World Cup group stage as they return to the global showpiece for the first time since the 2010 tournament in South Africa.