PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa - New Zealand coach Mike Hesson acknowledged axed captain and batsman Ross Taylor's absence was hurting his team as the Black Caps crumbled to another dismal score on their tour of South Africa.

In the aftermath of New Zealand's 47-6 in reply to South Africa's 525-8 declared in the second test, Hesson said "we'd be a far better side if Ross Taylor was here, without doubt."

Hesson, who stripped Taylor of the captaincy in Sri Lanka last year, said his team was being "outclassed" but the current batsmen would be determined "to make a difference" in the remainder of the final test.

New Zealand says Taylor has indicated he will be available for the home series against England next month. He will likely be rushed back into New Zealand's struggling team.

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