New Zealand vice-captain Brendon McCullum was cleared of any break following a visit to hospital for an X-ray after taking a nasty blow while batting against England at Lord's.

McCullum was struck just below the elbow on the left forearm by a Stuart Broad bouncer and, after consulting with the team physio on the field, retired hurt and went to have the injury assessed.

It has since been confirmed that he suffered only severe bruising and will be able to resume batting, if required, later on Monday.

The incident occurred early in the afternoon session with New Zealand 120-4 in their second innings as the first Test looked set to be heading for a draw.