Sri Lanka's top order have guided the team to an eight wicket victory over the Black caps in Nelson.

Black Caps pace bowler Tim Southee has been ruled out of Saturday's fourth ODI with Sri Lanka with a foot injury sustained during the eight-wicket loss to Sri Lanka in Nelson on New Year's Eve.

Southee, who joined the squad for the final three games, pulled up lame during Sri Lanka's successful run chase at Saxton Oval. He has been replaced by Matt Henry, the Black Caps leading wicket taker in the series to date.

Black Caps coach Mike Hesson said Southee, who conceded 44 runs from six overs, said the extent of the problem with his left foot was still to be assessed but the early prognosis indicated Henry should rejoin the squad for the second leg of the Nelson double header.

Evan Barnes/Photosport NZ New Zealand bowler Tim Southee is out of the fourth ODI against Sri Lanka in Nelson on Saturday.

"We're not sure of the nature of the injury at this point and will need to find out more information over the coming days," said Hesson.

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"Matt comes back into the squad having performed strongly in the opening two ODIs, so we know he'll join us in good form."

Henry took eight wickets at 10.25 during the Black Caps resounding back-to-back victories in Christchurch and was considered unlucky to return to provincial duty with Canterbury - a selection decision made before the five-match series got underway.