New Zealand has been dealt a significant blow ahead of the second Test against Zimbabwe, with pace bowler Will O’Rourke ruled out due to a back injury. O’Rourke experienced stiffness in his back on day three of New Zealand’s impressive nine-wicket victory in the first Test. He had earlier taken 3 wickets for 28 runs in the second innings, playing a crucial role in the team’s triumph. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed that O’Rourke has been sent home for further assessment.
Injury Woes for New Zealand’s Pace Attack
O’Rourke’s injury adds to New Zealand’s growing injury concerns. All-rounder Nathan Smith, another key pacer, was already ruled out due to an abdominal strain sustained while batting during the first Test. Smith’s injury, confirmed by an MRI scan, is expected to keep him out of action for two to four weeks, further depleting the team’s bowling resources.
Ben Lister to Remain as Cover
In response to these injury setbacks, left-arm seamer Ben Lister has been retained with the squad. Lister was initially called up as additional pace-bowling cover and is now a potential candidate for a Test debut in the upcoming match. The second and final Test of the series will start on Thursday, and Lister could play a crucial role in bolstering New Zealand’s pace attack.
New Zealand has faced several other setbacks ahead of this series. Captain Tom Latham missed the first Test due to a shoulder injury but has remained with the squad, hoping to recover in time for the second Test. Glenn Phillips, the batting allrounder, also withdrew from the tour after injuring his right groin during the Major League Cricket (MLC) final. Phillips’ spot was filled by Bracewell, who replaced him despite prior commitments to The Hundred.
The New Zealand squad for the series includes Mitchell Santner (captain), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matthew Fisher, Zakary Foulkes, Matt Henry, Ben Lister, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, and Will Young.
With key players sidelined, New Zealand will need to adapt quickly and rely on their remaining squad members to secure a series win.
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