New Zealand fast bowler Will O’Rourke has been sidelined for at least three months after being diagnosed with a stress fracture in his lower back. The injury rules him out of the upcoming white-ball series against Australia, England and West Indies, and he could also miss the three-Test series against West Indies in December.
O’Rourke complained of back stiffness during the third day of the opening Test against Zimbabwe and will now undergo a three-month strength and conditioning program before a clearer return timeline is set. Head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment but remained optimistic.
“We’re really feeling for Will at the moment and wishing him a speedy recovery,” Walter said. “He’s had such an impressive start to his career and it’s disappointing when an injury like this comes along, but he’s a resilient guy and determined to put the work in and come back stronger.”
Walter added that stress fractures are common among fast bowlers and the team will reassess after three months.
Meanwhile, allrounder Glenn Phillips will miss the T20I series against Australia, starting October 1 in Mount Maunganui, as he continues to recover from a groin injury. Opener Finn Allen will also be out for around three months following surgery for a stress fracture in his right foot.
Captain Mitchell Santner remains doubtful for the series after returning from the Hundred with groin pain that will require abdominal surgery, although New Zealand hope to name him in the squad and make a decision closer to the series.
“Mitch is a world-class player and a crucial part of our T20 side from a skills and leadership point of view,” Walter said. “We’ll monitor his recovery and make a call on the eve of the series.”
On a positive note, fast bowler Ben Sears has recovered from the side strain that kept him out of the Zimbabwe tour and is expected to be available against Australia.